Discipline proved to be a major setback for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua side in their 39-36 loss to the Moana Pasifika, Head Coach Mick Byrne and Captain Meli Derenalagi have asserted.
The team’s struggle to maintain possession and avoid penalties in the first half hampered their performance, leading to a loss that has prompted introspection and a call for improvement.
“We turned over a lot of possession in that first half…we only had just over 30% possession,” said Byrne.
“We had over 70% in the second half…but discipline gave away a number of penalties which just keeps us on the back foot.”
Derenalagi also shared his disappointment with the team’s start, emphasizing the impact of penalties on the game’s outcome.
“We are very disappointed as players…lots of penalties and disciplines that have made on the field really cost us.”
“We will try to move on, learn as quickly as possible, and just focus on the game ahead of us.”
The team’s focus now shifts to tightening up their game play and ensuring that discipline issues do not derail their efforts in the upcoming games.
“After the loss to Moana Pasifika, we’ll regroup starting Monday. I’ve told the players we need to set new standards and work together as a team.”
“The penalties and discipline issues on the field really cost us, allowing Moana to outplay us. It’s crucial we address these mistakes as we prepare to face the Crusaders,” concluded Byrne.
