Simpson builds on RWC success

Fiji Times - Wednesday, February 13, 2008 8:12 AM

JUNIOR Flying Fijians coach Rayne Simpson will use Fiji's brilliant outing at the 2007 Rugby World Cup to motivate his players. Simpson will name a 40-member squad today for the Junior World Cup in June in Wales.

A psychology assessment was held yesterday afternoon to set goals of the team and players.
"The Flying Fijians have already set the benchmark and these guys have the opportunity to equal or better it," Simpson said.
"That's my goal." The team completed day two of their three-day camp yesterday as Simpson worked on areas of the game.
"We're working on every area. The first is defence tracking which involves the alignment of player when defending," he said.
"Tomorrow (today) we have more rugby specific programs for the players and a debriefing in the afternoon."
He said he was pleased with the fitness level which has "doubled" since the team marched into camp in December.
Australia-based players Malakai Kaci, Alexander Rokobaro, Eroni Tava, Lai Kaumaitotoya and Venaia Navutoto bring experience. The four players have rugby league backgrounds. Simpson said he was "happy" with what he saw from the four.
"The area that they live in is all rugby league. So some of their running line and defence is very good due to that," Simpson said.
"They played union when they were younger and a bit of rugby league. But at this age, it's not hard to switch over. To get their skills in with the locals is very exciting."
Players from New Zealand have yet to join the team with the management looking into the reasons behind the delay. "Apparently there are some issues with the clubs regarding their contracts but right now, I'm happy with what I've got."
The Junior World Cup will be held from June 6-22 and Fiji is in Pool C with Australia, England and Canada. The side will depart the country at the end of May and play two matches against Sydney University and North's before heading to Wales.
North's is coached by Greg Mumm, who was with the Fiji side at the Rugby World Cup last year.
Simpson said he was pleased the side would spend sometime in Sydney as players would gain from the exposure.