Byrne Names Strong, Revamped Flying Fijians Side for Spanish Clash

FIJI Water Flying Fijians coach Mick Byrne has named a powerful side with several strategic changes for their final test match of the year against Spain this Saturday, aiming to finish their November tour on a high note.

Following their recent, hard-fought battles against England and France, Byrne has called upon the depth of his squad, making seven changes to the starting fifteen. The new lineup sees Haereiti Hetet, Tim Hoyt, and Setareki Turagacoke join the tight five, while Vilimoni Botitu, Sireli Maqala, Joji Nasova, and Setareki Tuicuvu also earn starting spots.

A notable inclusion on the reserves bench is Kavaia Tagivetaua, who is in line for a potential debut test cap in the famous Fiji jersey.

Coach Byrne emphasised the importance of utilising his full squad, pointing to the demanding schedule many of his key players have endured. “We’ve had players that have had a massive year,” Byrne stated. “Bill Mata has played since July for the Flying Fijians and with his club, similar to Josua Tuisova. It’s good to go to the depth of your squad this week and give them a chance to see what they’ve got.”

Reflecting on the tour, Byrne acknowledged the team’s performance against top-tier nations was strong but was marred by lapses in discipline. “We went into the match against England and performed well but missed out because of discipline, which left the team disappointed,” he said. “We were given another chance against France.”

Byrne highlighted the opportunities for the new starters, specifically mentioning prop Tim Hoyt and potential debutant Tagivetaua. “It’s an opportunity for him (Hoyt) to take another chance at that position and also for us to see how he goes,” Byrne said. On Tagivetaua, he shared, “He’s been around in the Drua program for a couple of years, and he’s been in our squad in the background developing. It’s quite exciting to see what he can do on game day.”

Byrne is under no illusions about the challenge that awaits, warning that the Spanish side will be “no walk-over.” He pointed to Spain’s recent tough encounter with England and the scare they gave the Flying Fijians during their meeting last November as evidence of their growing threat.

The FIJI Water Flying Fijians will take on Spain this Saturday in Malaga. Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 PM local time. Fans in Fiji can catch the match LIVE on FBC Sports at 4:00 AM on Sunday, November 23rd.