Satala starts as pivot

Fiji Times - Saturday, May 24, 2008 8:53 AM

SKIPPER Marika Vunibaka has been named with regulars Setafano Cakau and Viliame Maya in the forwards for Fiji's first pool match against Canada at the London 7s tonight.

Coach Josateki Savou named a strong team as the Digicel-sponsored side aim to end its winless streak in the 2007/2008 International Rugby Board Sevens World Series.

Nippy Nadroga man Emosi Vucago will be at halfback with solider Iliavi Satala at playmaker.

Youngster Tomasi Mawi and Nadroga's Ratunaisa Narukutabua have been bracketed for the rover's position while Ra speed merchant Timoci Matanavou will be on the wing.

Savou said no game would be easy and he needed to start strongly.

"All teams are tough and the players know that and what they are expected to do," Savou said.

"So we need to be on our toes from game one."

The new players in the squad, Vereimi Vilitati, Seremaia Burotu and Sailosi Rabonaqica will make their debut off the reserves bench.

The other player on the bench is Japan-based Nasoni Roko who is one of the matured player in the squad.

He said the chilly weather was a concern but the players were adjusting well after acclimatising for a few days in London so far.

"The new players have combined well with the other reps," he said.

The Fijian community in London has been showing good support for the team and Savou said this was heartening.

"The team has been boosted by the backing shown by the Fijian community and we are moved their gesture," Savou said.

Fiji takes on Canada at 8.44pm and Portugal at 11.50pm before facing Australia at 4.14am tomorrow.