The Fiji 7s rugby team is on a mission to reclaim their former glory, and the Dubai 7s tournament is their first step towards redemption. But can they rise from the ashes of a disappointing season? The pressure is on!
After a lackluster 2023-24 HSBC SVNS season, the Fiji Men’s Sevens team is determined to make a statement in Dubai. The team’s natural talent and flair have always been their strength, but recent struggles have exposed weaknesses that need addressing. The question is, can they overcome these challenges and prove they still belong at the top?
The road to redemption:
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Physical Prowess: Fiji’s iconic free-flowing rugby style thrives on peak physical fitness. Last season, fatigue was a significant issue, allowing opponents to capitalize late in matches. The team must regain their stamina to ensure their natural strengths remain assets and not liabilities.
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Set Piece Supremacy: While not traditionally Fiji’s forte, set pieces have become crucial in modern rugby. Inconsistency in lineouts last season cost them possession and momentum. The team needs to secure their own ball and contest opposition lineouts aggressively to regain control.
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Disciplinary Discipline: A shocking 26 yellow cards and 2 red cards last season highlight Fiji’s disciplinary issues. These problems have turned winnable matches into uphill battles. The team must improve communication, composure, and respect for the game to avoid unnecessary infringements and penalties.
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Consistency is Key: Fiji boasts a talented squad, but some players have struggled to replicate their local success on the global stage. The challenge is to help these players handle the pressure and perform consistently. Finding the right balance between freedom and structure will be essential for the team’s playmakers.
And here’s where it gets controversial…
As the new SVNS format raises the stakes, every game in Dubai is a potential make-or-break moment. A victory would not only be a historic Dubai double but also a symbolic rebirth for Fiji’s sevens identity. It would set the tone for a season of redemption, restoring faith among fans and reasserting Fiji’s dominance in world rugby.
Meanwhile, the Fijiana 7s team is also on a journey of resurgence. After a challenging season, they aim to reclaim their elite status. Under new leadership, they’ve focused on decision-making, defense, and set-piece execution, while maintaining their trademark flair. The return of experienced players and the emergence of young talent offer hope for a bright future.
The stage is set for a pivotal weekend in Dubai. Can Fiji rise again? Will the Fijiana reclaim their glory? The world of rugby is watching, and the teams’ performances will spark debates and discussions. What do you think? Is this the beginning of a new era for Fiji’s sevens teams, or will they face more challenges ahead?