FIJI Water Flying Fijians Head Coach Mick Byrne is impressed with the versatility of Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula at fullback and has allowed the 20-year-old to retain his position in another tactical move ahead of tonight’s Asahi Super Dy Pacific Nations Cup semi final clash against the USA Eagles.
Byrne stressed that he chose to include two fly-halves in the lineup, with Caleb Muntz taking the number 10 jersey, while Armstrong-Ravula will start at fullback.
Byrne expressed confidence in Armstrong-Ravula’s ability and versatility to adapt to the role, highlighting his experience as a fly-half. He says the 20-year-old is a great young player, and just like any number 10 that shifts to fullback, they know what the 10s are looking for, so they are able to fill the space very quickly.
He adds when they go back to 15, they have an awareness of what the opposite 10 is trying to do, which helps in his ability to read the game well, which will be crucial for them.
Byrne praised Armstrong-Ravula’s performance and comfort in the fullback position, noting, that he has been enjoying the freedom at the back, and so far has been good in that position. Fiji will take on the USA at 10.05 tonight.
In the other semi final, Samoa will take on Japan at 6.05pm tomorrow.
Tonga will play Canada in the 5th place playoff at 7pm Saturday.
All games will be played at Prince Chichibu Memorial Rugby Stadium in Japan.
