FIJI

Fiji need to look closer to home

Thursday 03rd April 2008

Unhappy fans: Fiji left their fans in poor spirits in Hong Kong

Former New Zealand Sevens star Iliesa Tanivula believes the inclusion of overseas-based players was the main reason for Fiji failing at the Hong Kong Sevens.

Both the Fijian Rugby Union and Sevens team have come under-fire after the disappointing showing in Hong Kong, and Tanivula rests the blame with overseas players.

The tournament marked Fiji's worst ever Sevens result, a 34-0 drubbing at the hands of New Zealand in the semi-finals.

The Fiji side suffered its biggest defeat in Hong Kong after going down 34-0 to New Zealand.

"I think the players who came in from overseas did not perform and failed to step up and lead the team," Tanivula told The Fijian Times.

"We all thought their presence would lift the team but instead, it was our biggest downfall.

"The players did not get any combination. It looked like the team did not have any game plan and resorted to individual play.

"The senior players were guilty of not leading the team when the going got tough."

Tanivula said Fiji Sevens could not continue to rely on the overseas-based players to bring glory to country.

"When these players return, we're back to square one. I think we should try and develop players now rather than relying on the overseas players," he added.