Fight to the end: Tanivula

Fiji Times - Thursday, May 08, 2008 4:36 PM

FIJI Warriors coach Iliesa Tanivula has emphasised to his players during training sessions the importance of playing 80-minute games as they prepare for the crucial Pacific Rugby Cup clash against the Tau'uta Reds this Friday.

The Air Pacific Warriors came up short in their previous two matches in Samoa handing the opposition victory in the later stages of the match.

According to Tanivula, the aim is to lift the intensity in the second spell.

"It has been disappointing to lose the matches like we did in Samoa," Tanivula said.

"We had the advantage at half time. Those lapses in concentration cost us dearly. We were unable to hold on to the lead and allowed the opposition to snatch victory from us."

The Warriors are in fourth spot with six points.

The side has been boosted with the return of Flying Fijians rep Aca Ratuva.

The 2007 Rugby World Cup squad member was injured in the match against Savai'i Samoa a fortnight ago.

Tanivula said he wants his players to perform under pressure.

"Majority of the players we have are new to this level," Tanivula said.

"As a result it has taken sometime to settle down and build the combination. It is a learning process. We have worked on our mistakes. I'm certain they will come out firing against the Reds whom we cannot count out. From what we have heard the Reds are a strong outfit. The Barbarians only won with the last kick of the game. We cannot take the Tongans lightly."

The Reds have an outside chance of reaching the finals. The side must win both its remaining matches by a bonus point and then hope that high flyers Upolu Samoa and Tau'tahi Gold lose both of their remaining matches.

Tau'uta Reds coach Sione Fetuani is determined his side will create an upset against the hosts and not return home empty handed.

The fixture will kick-off at 7pm at Churchill Park in Lautoka.