It's Taiwan's final: Serevi

Fiji Times - Saturday, March 29, 2008 1:26 PM

WAISALE Serevi said for Chinese Taipei last night's 50-5 loss against New Zealand was as good as a World Cup final.

The Asian minnows, now coached by the king of the code, were to have played New Zealand at 10.20 last night after this edition had gone to press.

"We have an enthusiastic bunch of players, they're keen listeners and very fast learners," Serevi said. "I have a mixture of youngsters together with five players who played at the last Sevens World Cup."

Chinese Taipei's other pool matches are against Tunisia and USA.

"This pool is a tough one but I am happy," Serevi added.

"Just what I need in the build-up to the Sevens World Cup qualifiers in October."

Serevi said his bunch were very skillful and had the ability to motor around the park but they had their weaknesses as well. "They need power, strength is a concern," said the winner of two world cups in the abbreviated code.

"That's what I've spent most of last six weeks on.

"They've been hitting the gym and improving their upper body strength.

"We'll get there slowly. Everyone is happy, the players and the Taiwanese union alike.

"Their goal for me is to get the team through to the World Cup in Dubai next year." He said matches like the one against the Kiwis last night was timely.

"We need to play matches against the very best to improve, that's the only way you can gauge the strength and ability of the lesser known teams.

"The players are overwhelmed by the fixture against New Zealand. To them it is like a World Cup final."