Rodu demands discipline as Fiji prepares for New Zealand test

Fiji’s Junior Bula Boys began their OFC U-19 Men’s Championship campaign with a 7-2 demolition of Vanuatu, but coach Marika Rodu quickly shifted his focus to the defending champions, New Zealand.

“

Just don’t concede early. We’re playing New Zealand next. It’s going to be a tough competition.

Vanuatu took the lead through Roham Masaukalo in the 15th minute. Abdul Khairati equalised in the 26th before Fiji took control after halftime, scoring six goals in the second half.

Rodu said the comeback showed character within the squad. He also credited the players with taking greater responsibility as the match progressed, saying the team began to believe in itself after the right encouragement at the right time.

“

For me, the job is to just keep pushing the boys and inspire them. I think they need to take ownership of this performance. I think they started to believe in themselves with the right word and the right motivation at the right time.

The coach said the halftime discussion focused on discipline and returning to Fiji’s game plan. Despite praising the attacking performance, he warned the players against complacency and stressed the need to avoid conceding early against New Zealand. Fiji faces the defending champions in Samoa on Saturday at 2 p.m. Rodu also thanked supporters at home for their backing.

“

Continue to support us. Your prayers and your best wishes always motivate us. I know everyone is glued to their laptop or TV to watch us and I thank them for their continued support.