Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend is confident that the players can get the job done when the dust settles at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva on Saturday afternoon.
Speaking during the press conference in Suva yesterday, the no-nonsense coach said they are ready to take on the Flying Fijians.
He told SUNsports that their only threat would be on the Fiji backline especially when on attack.
“I met with (Josua) Tuisova, yes he is a beast and a good ball runner and one of the most physical players,” the 52-year-old said.
“There is a lot of threat throughout the field but yes, we know we can get the job done.”
Townsend said they would counter the Flying Fijians backline by being physical.
“We have players that played Six Nations together and a few of them will be their first game on tour, they are excited. I am aware of the strength of the opposition.”
Speaking to SUNsports, Townsend said it is a privilege to be in Fiji and lead the team against the Flying Fijians.
“Today, when we were at the stadium and it reminded me of the first time I was here back in 1993,” he recalled.
“I just love the sport. Being the coach of some Fijian players at Glasgow, I’ve always admired the mindset that they play with and how they play the game.
“So yes, we are privileged to be here, but we’re here for a reason and that’s to play our best rugby and win Saturday’s Test match,” he said.
The last time Scotland played in Suva was in 2017 where the Flying Fijians won 27-22. Tuisova also made his Test debut in that game.
Family tradition
Scotland is highly likely to start Adam Hastings at No.10 following his impressive performance against Maori All Blacks last Saturday.
The newest member of a famous rugby dynasty, Adam is the third Hastings to represent the senior Scotland side, following in the footsteps of his legendary dad Gavin and uncle Scott.
Together, Gavin and Adam are the 15th father and son combination to represent Scotland.
“Having Hastings to lead our backline this week is a cracker; he was exceptional last weekend.
“We have a good mix of players and yes, we looking forward as morale in camp is high,” he added.
However, Hastings has had bad memories of playing against the Flying Fijians, in November 2022, he copped a monstrous tackle from Leone Rotuisolia and had to be stretchered off the field.
Expect changes
Loose forward Rory Darge will captain Scotland on Saturday.
“Rory has played before with some players in the Fiji team and he knows what needs to be done,” Townsend said.
“We wish there had been more people selected for the Lions but we are here now and job day is Saturday.”
When asked about what’s the team strategy going up against the Europe based players who are in the Fiji team, Townsend said, “Viliame Mata and Kalaveti Ravouvou are very good players.
“They are good ball carriers and they bring physicality in defence and they are definitely very good players.”
Townsend said there would be a number of changes in the Match 23 squad this week but they must have a similar level of performance, if not much better.
The match kicks-off at 3pm.
Feedback: josua.buredua@fijisun.com.fj
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