The Fiji Under 20 coach says the team's preparation must improve if they're to return to the top tier of junior world rugby.
The Fijians finished a disappointing World Rugby Under 20 Trophy campaign in fifth place after a 36-24 victory over Namibia in Lisbon.
Losses to Georgia and Uruguay ended hopes of immediate promotion back to the elite Under 20 Championship.
Fijian supporters at the World Rugby Under 20 Trophy in Lisbon. Photo: World Rugby / Miguel Rodrigues
Head coach Bill Gadolo says execution let them down at crucial times and says in future a more thorough build-up would help their chances.
Fiji beat Namibia to finish fifth at the World Rugby Under 20 Trophy in Lisbon. Photo: World Rugby / Miguel Rodrigues
"We can't expect two months preparation to solve a problem. That's where the question of an academy for Fiji is really really needed, to get these boys prepared well way ahead before the actual tournament. We need a lot more exposure for the boys, in terms of competitive games. The nature of test-level rugby is totally different to the games the boys are exposed to".
Tonga finished fourth overall after being pipped 44-43 by Uruguay in a 12-try thriller.
Tonga lost to Uruguay to finish fourth at the World Rugby Under 20 Trophy in Lisbon. Photo: World Rugby / Miguel Rodrigues
The President and Chair of the Tonga Rugby Union, Epeli Taione, says they are hugely disappointed with the result, with the Kingdom left to rue their defeat to Canada in the round robin.
"We lost by a point or two and the manner in which we lose the game we still haven't recovered from that. I don't like having a go at the officials but, to be honest, I think those officials need to go back to square one and learn how to officiate key games like that. It's another year in the wilderness for us. I think the Uruguay game - if anything the boys just turned up but I think the damage has been done".
Georgia won promotion to the top tier after thrashing Canada 49-24 in the final.
