Fiji Water Flying Fijians coach Mick Byrne has not made a lot of changes to his side that beat Tonga last week in Nuku’alofa for this weekend’s Asahi Super Dy Pacific Nations Cup semi final against the USA Eagles.
Byrne has made only 4 changes which include Kitione Salawa coming in to start at number 7, pushing Albert Tuisue to the bench, Isoa Nasilasila comes in for Mesake Vocevoce, Inia Tabuavou starts at inside centre while Apisalome Vota is on the bench.
Tevita Ikanivere will lead the side and will start at hooker and he will be joined by Eroni Mawi and Samuela Tawake in the front row.
Nasilasila will partner with Temo Mayanavanua in the locks, while Ratu Meli Derenalagi will pair up with Salawa on the flanks.
The explosive Elia Canakaivata will start at number 8.
Frank Lomani and Caleb Muntz retain their halves partnership while Tabuavou and Iosefo Masi will start at centres.
Epeli Momo and Vuate Karawalevu will start on the wings, and 20-year-old Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula will start at fullback again.
The reseves include Mesu Dolokoto, Haereiti Hetet, Peni Ravai, Ratu Leone Rotuisolia, Albert Tuisue, Peni Matawalu, Ilaisa Droasese and Apisalome Vota.
The Flying Fijians will take on the USA Eagles in the Pacific Nations Cup semi final at 10.05pm tomorrow.
In the other semi final, Samoa will take on Japan at 6.05pm Sunday.
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.
