The coaching style of Flying Fijians assistant coach Aaron Mauger has benefitted our players in many ways.

This was the view of Flying Fiji-ans head coach Mick Byrne during an interview with SUNsports yesterday.

“The rugby IQ that Aaron brings into the squad is second to none and there are players benefitting from learning as much as they do every day on the training track,” Byrne said.

The former All Blacks second-five eighth played 46 Tests and 89 Super Rugby matches for the Crusaders. Mauger was also the head coach of the Highlanders and Moana Pasifika.

Byrne said that Mauger’s coaching style is more like a teacher and very detailed.

“The players are learning, and they are benefiting from his expertise around the field.”

This has come in handy as the Fiji Water sponsored national rugby team is anticipating a very physical encounter against USA (United States of America) in tonight’s Pacific Nations Cup semi-final clash. The match is played at the Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo, Japan at 10.05pm tonight.

“They (USA) are a well-coached team and they are playing a good expansive game of rugby as well,” he said.

“They are physical upfront and we got a good kicking game as their flyhalf controls the game really well.”

Byrne said the USA side is a structured side and is likely to utilise their forward pack.

“We’re going to measure up against them and we’ll be wary of their kicking game. Our players are going to be very physical against USA.”

He said the return of centre Byrne said loosies Meli Derenalagi, Kitione Salawa and Elia Canakaivata have been impressive during their PNC campaign. Byrne said the players have been told to retain possession and stick to their gameplan.

TEAM LIST:
1. Eroni Mawi, 2. Tevita Ikanivere (c), 3. Samuela Tawake, 4. Isoa Nasi-lasila, 5. Temo Mayanavanua, 6. Meli Derenalagi, 7. Kitione Salawa, 8. Elia Canakaivata, 9. Frank Lomani, 10. Caleb Muntz, 11. Epeli Momo, 12. Inia Tabuavou, 13. Iosefo Masi, 14. Vuate Karawalevu, 15. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula

Reserves: 16. Mesulame Dolokoto, 17. Haereiti Hetet, 18. Peni Ravai, 19. Leone Rotuisolia, 20. Albert Tuisue, 21. Peni Matawalu, 22. Apisalome Vota, 23. Ilaisa Droasese.

Feedback: ioane.asioli@fijisun.com.fj