24 Jun 2017

Sport: Fijiana 7's eye top four finish, World Cup qualification

11:04 am on 24 June 2017

The Fiji women's sevens team are targeting a return to form in this weekend's final round in France as they bid to secure a top-four finish on the World Series and a spot at next year's World Cup in San Francisco.

The Fijiana finished ninth at the last round in Canada to slip behind Russia to fifth in the overall standings.

Fiji captain Ana Maria Roqica made the tournament Dream Team at the Kitakyushu Sevens.

Fiji captain Ana Maria Roqica. Photo: Michael Lee - KLC fotos

Head coach Iliesa Tanivula said preparation let them down last month but they've worked hard in training to address their concerns.

"We managed to get back and play one of our best games with Australia and drew that game but it's something we've learned and spoken about as a squad," Tanivula said.

"We've just got turn up every time mentally with that jersey on and having that emblem on our chest, we've just got to be proud and really passionate about playing for Fiji."

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Photo: Michael Lee - KLC fotos for World Rugby

Asinate Savu, Lavenia Tinai and debutant Lavena Cavuru get their chance this weekend after being called up as injury replacements for Miriama Naiobasali, Reijeli Daveua and Alowesi Nakoci.

Tanivula said the squad had been consistent throughout the season so it was a rare opportunity for the reinforcements to impress.

"The last tournament we had a few injuries.

"Heading into this tournament we were forced to make a couple of changes but I guess it's an opportunity for the other girls, that haven't been in the squad, to come in and stake their claim," he said.

The12 team captains gather in Clermont-Ferrand ahead of the last round of the World Series.

The12 team captains gather in Clermont-Ferrand ahead of the last round of the World Series. Photo: World Rugby / Mike Lee @KLC Fotos

The Fijiana face hosts France first up before rounding off pool play against Olympic champions Australia and Spain.

If the Fijiana can leapfrog Russia into the top four they will also secure an automatic berth at next year's World Cup in San Francisco.