Two new caps in Fijiana 7s team

Two new players have been picked in the Fijiana women's sevens team for next weekend's World Series tournament in Las Vegas.

Nadi pair Aloesi Nakoci and Vasiti Solikoviti have forced their way into the team following an intense two week training program.

Head coach Iliesa Tanivula said they've focused on improving their defence and decision making in contact in training.

"The two new girls play for Nadi Blazers and they have got on well with the team on and off the field," he said.

"Nakoci comes in to replace Viniana Riwai, [who] unfortunately got injured, in Sydney and this will be an opportunity for her to show why she has been selected.

"She comes in with a lot speed and is really fit. Solikoviti is a forward and comes in as our 13th player for exposure at top level.

"She is also fit and is tall and quick. She has been learning the ropes and has been responding well."

Fiji are fourth overall after two rounds of the Women's World Series, despite missing out on the Cup quarter finals in Sydney earlier this month.

The Fijiana beat France 31-12 in the fifth place playoff to match their effort in Dubai in December.

Fiji Rugby Union CEO, John O'Connor, said there was still a lot of work to be done and they have the ability to move to the top of the table.

"It is encouraging to see that [they] have improved [their] standings but there is still a lot of work to be done," he said.

"You have the ability to move to the top of the table and it comes down to determination, hard work and most of all team work."

The Fijiana are up against hosts USA, Ireland and Spain in Pool B in Las Vegas.

Fijiana team:

1. Rusila Nagasau

2. Merewai Cumu

3. Miriama Naiobasali

4. Talica Vodo

5. Priscilla Siata

6. Asinate Savu

7. Ana Maria Roqica

8. Tima Ravisa

9. Lavenia Tinai

10. Aloesi Nakoci

11. Ana Maria Naimasi

12. Rejieli Daveuwa

13. Vasiti Solikoviti

 

Photo: World Rugby (The Fijiana finished fifth at the inaugural Sydney Women's Sevens).