2017 Rugby League World Cup - Fiji vs Wales Preview

The Lowdown

FIJI

• Fiji were far too strong for USA as they overpowered their opponents in impressive style as they won just their second international game from their last six.
• Head Coach Mick Potter has been forced into one change with Kane Evans suffering a broken wrist in the process of scoring a try last week. His place in the 17 has been taken by Junior Roqica.
• Fiji have conceded 26 points or more in four of their last six international matches but having conceded just 12 points last week, they will be hoping for another solid defensive effort.

Head Coach: Mick Potter

Team: Naiqama; Vunivalu, Milne, Uate, Montoya; Hayne, Raiwalui; A. Sims, Koroisau, Vunakece, Kikau, Wiliame, Kamikamica

Bench: Lovodua, Saifiti, Roqica, Nakubuwai

WALES

• Wales were outclassed by Papua New Guinea in their World Cup opener with their weak squad being exposed against a superior outfit.
• Things won't get any easier for Wales as they come up against a Fiji side that scored 58 points in their opening game against USA last weekend.
• John Kear has made six changes to his side with Christiaan Roets, Danny Ansell, Joe Burke, Matthew Barron and Dalton Grant all receiving call-ups.

Head Coach: John Kear

Team: Kear; Williams, Channing, Roets, Grace; Davies, Ansell; Kopczak, Parry, Joseph, Lloyd, Burke, Knowles

Bench: Fozard, Barron, Evans, Grant

Analysis - what to expect
Fiji were far too strong for the USA last week and after Wales were hammered by Papua New Guinea, they will fancy themselves to come away with another big win. The Fijians have plenty of pace and power throughout their squad and scored some impressive tries whilst also blowing several chances for even more points. Wales have it all to do after last week's poor showing but having conceded an average of 33.5 points per game over their last four World Cup games, this could be another long afternoon for the Welshmen as Fiji will be hopeful of breaching the 50 point mark for the second straight week.