'We didn’t play to our standard': Kolinisau expects improvement in New York

Fiji Men’s Sevens boss Osea Kolinisau could not contain his disappointment at his team’s third-place finish last week in Vancouver.

That result, along with South Africa’s tournament win at BC Place, means that the Pacific Islanders are level on points with the Blitzboks at the top of the HSBC SVNS Series heading into the final leg of the season in New York City.

There is a boost heading into this weekend’s title decider with Jerry Matana returning from injury. Kolinisau has even encouraged Akuila Draunivoto to express himself more on the pitch.

More than anything else, Kolinisau wants to put their last tournament behind them after they did not stick to their regular standards.

“Obviously we were disappointed about last week,” Kolinisau said. “We didn’t play to our standard and at times we didn’t stick to our processes.

“We missed a lot of tackles and a lot of opportunities, and our kick-offs also let us down.

“Last week we weren’t in control in defence. The boys were trying to make big shots and over-chasing.

“It’s about controlling our space, staying connected and making sure our inside defenders are working hard.”

For the final HSBC SVNS Series stop of the season in New York City, Fiji have been named in Pool B with Spain, Argentina and Great Britain.

In Spain there will be a painful reminder of their 24-17 semi-final loss in Vancouver a week ago, but that group stage clash does provide the opportunity to instantly put last week’s errors to bed.

Finishing above South Africa at Sports Illustrated Stadium this weekend will hand the Fijians the Series title.

Everyone knows what is on the line and learning from last week’s mistakes will only ensure success.

“The boys know the Series is on the line,” Kolinisau said. “Each player has to take responsibility and make sure they are ready.

“We know there are two ways we can win the series, win this tournament and finish above South Africa.

“For us, the focus is making sure we improve in defence, communication and our one-on-one tackles.”