Fiji number eight Viliame Mata insists they are “ready for the challenge” ahead of facing Australia in a must-win Rugby World Cup pool fixture on Sunday.
After going down to a narrow 32-26 loss to Wales in their opening match, the Fijians know another defeat could all but end their knockout qualification hopes.
Therefore Mata is looking to keep their quarter-final dreams alive with a win over Australia, as he looks to back up his strong performance against the Welsh.
A great honour
“It’s always a great honour to represent Fiji, and to get selected to play the Flying Fijians is very special,” he told Fiji’s website ahead of the game this Sunday.
“From the start of week one, when we marched into camp in Taveuni, we wanted to go all out, and we did give our best, but unfortunately, we didn’t get the result.
“We have the same goal ahead but just a different team now, so we are going to give all our best.”
Slowing down to grow, progress and minimize injuries 💪🏾 #duavataveilomanirakavi #RWC2023 pic.twitter.com/kDJ5zWjPZ7
— Fiji Rugby Union (@fijirugby) September 12, 2023
After analysing the defeat to Wales, Fiji are looking to put a few things right against the Wallabies and Mata admits it is a “crucial” game in their tournament.
“We’re ready for the challenge,” he said, stressing the players must believe in themselves. “We have to throw our bodies on the line if we are to win this match.
“It’s a crucial game and against a better opponent, and we will prepare very well for the game.”
Fantastic player
Meanwhile, Fiji head coach Simon Raiwalui singled out number eight Mata for his leadership and performance in the game against Wales as he hailed the player.
“He has always been working hard and a very fantastic player, plus he performs to his very best against any team,” Raiwalui praised ahead of the mouth-watering clash.
The Wallabies kicked off the Rugby World Cup campaign with a comfortable win over Georgia and currently top Pool C ahead of the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard game.
READ MORE: Opinion: Wallabies impressively clear the first hurdle but tougher questions loom
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