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Fiji Batis thrash Rochdale Hornets 78 - 0 in Rugby League World Cup warm up

THE Vodafone Fiji Bati team will need to recover from the onslaught of Fijians at their camp in England.

After a 78-nil riot over English third-division club Rochdale Hornets at Spotland Stadium yesterday morning, Fiji National Rugby League general manager Tomi Finau said the Bati players needed to recover from jet lag and the Fijian community activities prior to the Rugby League World Cup opener against Ireland next week.

Finau said Fiji Bati head coach Rick Stone was able to assess the players at various positions during the warm-up game.

In some positional experiments, Stone started Melbourne Storm winger Sisa Waqa at inside centre, pairing Wes Naiqama while Akuila Uate and Marika Koroibete ran on the wings.

Waqa later returned to the wing, making way for Daryl Millard in the second spell.

"The coach was not keen on the scoreline but he was able to test players in various positions," Finau said.

"Rick stated that the boys needed a good rest this week before the first game against Ireland. We have to make sure the players get a good rest from the long travel and the busy community activities here."

Finau said there was no injury concern.

"There are no injuries concern but some players are still recovering from niggling injuries from the warm-up match in Nadi.

"The boys are all good and are focused ahead of the responsibility at this world cup."

The Fiji Bati led 48-0 at the break against Rochdale. Stone gave time for all his 24 players during the warm-up game.

Kevin Naiqama started at fullback, Aaron Groom and Alipate Tani re-united in the halves combination while Jason Bukuya, Petero Civoniceva and James Storer started in the forwards.

Finau said Kevin produced a man of the match performance while the Sims brothers of Ashton, Tariq and Korbin were outstanding.

He said Nabua Broncos centre Ilisavani Jegesa took over the kicking duties in the second spell.

The Petero Civoniceva-captained side plays Ireland in its opening Group A match next week Tuesday at Spotland Stadium in Rochdale.

FIJI TIMES
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