Scots to apply RLWC heat to Fiji - Sports News - Fanatics - the world's biggest events

Scots to apply RLWC heat to Fiji

By Wayne Heming 04/11/2008 03:49:36 PM Comments (0)

Scotland coach Steve McCormack concedes his players face a massive challenge against a flamboyant Fiji in their World Cup showdown at Bluetongue Stadium on Wednesday night.

But he scoffs at suggestions his Bravehearts will be blown off the paddock by the Cup entertainers who shocked France with their power, pace and skill last weekend handing out a 42-6 hiding to the French.

France had opened their World Cup campaign with 36-18 win over the Scots making the form line heavily in Fiji's favour.

"It's a massive challenge," said McCormack who like everyone else was impressed by Fiji's big win over France.

"The manner in which they beat the French was a surprise to everybody and they've got a very fast back line."

McCormack has made eight player and positional changes to shake-up his players after their disappointing opening game.

Ben Fisher comes into hooker with Ian Henderson moving to lock while Oliver Winks has won a start in the front-row pushing Paul Jackson to the bench.

The other significant change is Wade Liddell's selection on the wing to take advantage of his dummy half running.

"Wade is very solid and very explosive out of dummy half and as a fullback is quite safe under the high ball," said McCormack.

"We only played at 40 or 50 per cent of our capabilities against France.

"We were soft around the rucks and if you look at the two results it's a huge challenge.

"It may have been attitude but we showed some glimpses when we were in good field position."

McCormack said Scotland's objective would be to put some real pressure on Fiji and see how they handle it.

"France didn't do that," he said.

"We've not seen them play under pressure and that's what we want to do."

Fiji are in a commanding position to top Pool 2 ahead of Wednesday's clash and only need to win or lose by less than 27 points to advance to a playoff with Pool 3 winners for a spot in the semi-finals.

Scotland face a near impossible task of topping the group as they need to win by 28 points or more to surpass the Fijians.

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