Costin optimistic
VODAFONE Fiji Bati coach Brandon Costin will loosen the reins and unleash Fijian flair as the Bati look to come out top of the pool at the World Cup Nines tournament that kicks off today.
“We are going to play to our strengths and bring out the Fijian flair,” Costin said.
Costin said with the abbreviated code mistakes could not be afforded especially when grouped with the likes of Samoa and Tonga in what has been labelled the pool of death.
“There is a different level of intensity with the nines and we cannot afford to make early errors because you don’t have the time to catch up,” Costin said.
“So there is a balance between playing as Fijians while not giving the opposition any opportunity.
“But trust me, we are going to play some expansive rugby.”
Group C has the Pacific’s finest National Rugby League stars.
The Bati boasts speed and skill with finishers such as Maika Sivo, Suliasi Vunivalu and Maika Ravalawa with returning fullback and captain Kevin Naiqama.
Penrith Panthers and Samoan livewire pivot Jarome Luai will provide quality ball for powerhouse backs David Nofoaluma, Brian To’o and Jorge Taufua as they look to stop Fiji in their first game.
The Vodafone Fiji Bati play Samoa in their opener at 9.15pm today at the Bankwest Stadium in Paramatta, Australia.
FIJI will unleash its flair when it faces Pacific neighbours during the Rugby League World Cup 9s today at the Bankwest Stadium in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
The pool is tagged by pundits as pool of death where the Fiji Bati will face Samoa, Tonga and Cook Islands. The Tongan side will field players such as Jason Taumalolo, Andrew Fifita, Tevita Pangai Jr, Will Hopoate, Broncos forward Joe Ofahengaue and Malakai Watene-Zelezniak.
The Bati have an impressive squad led by Kevin Naiqama and featuring players such as Maika Sivo, Villiam Kikau and Apisau Koroisau. Samoa have named a strong squad with Joey and Luciano Leilua, Danny Levi, Jarome Luai and Jorge Taufua.
The Bati will play Samoa today at 9:10pm in its first pool match. They will face Tonga at 2:10pm tomorrow and face Cook Islands at 5pm. Australia is the defending champion.