Fiji must place faith in themselves, not god
November 11th 2008 07:25
Fiji are in the semi-finals of the rugby league world cup and face the ominous task of downing world champions Australia. Of course, they have nothing to lose and will be eager to leave their mark in international league by playing the best football possible against the world champions this Sunday.
The Fijians did what they needed to do against a very spirited Ireland outfit who have surprised many in this world cup.
But the luck of the Irish had to run out eventually. And it did against a Fiji team who performed well enough to qualify for a semi-final, but not well enough to cause the Kangaroos any worries next week.
But as is the case with many island nations, they hate being favourites.
When they are cast with expectation, they falter, often going back into a shell that does little to enhance their aura as one of the most flamboyant league nations on the planet.
There were cases against Ireland where this was so. Fiji were doing little in terms of expressing the true magic that was used to beat European fancy, France.
Eels star Jarryd Hayne was involved, but he did not set the world on fire like on previous occasions.
Indeed there was no need for Fiji to reveal the talents that derive in this squad. They just played basic league that eventually overwhelmed Ireland into submission - even if it took 65 minutes to do so.
Now that the Irish are out of the way, Fiji will be underdogs once again.
However, this is the green light that has been signalled for them to play the game as they see fit against a kangaroos side that has no apparent weaknesses.
Fiji will cherish this opportunity no doubt. Its when underdogs that Fiji play their best football, as evidenced by their rugby union side, who knocked Wales out of last years world cup courtesy of free flowing, high risk football.
This is the only route Fiji must, and will take, if they are any hope of producing the greatest upset in international league history, let alone a league world cup.
No amount of prayers, collection plate money or church attendances will give Fiji hope against the Australians.
Its up to Fiji themselves to play the game of their lives against the six time world champions. If they begin to look up, all they will see is a trip home.
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