The pain of losing to Tonga in the Pacific Nations Cup last year is still fresh in the mind of Flying Fijian 15's coach Ilivasi Tabua as he prepares his side for their opening game against the Ikale Tahi side in Nukualofa next Saturday.

Fiji lost to Tonga 27-16 in their last PNC game last year and Tabua is working on molding a combination that can avenge that loss.

At training in the last 2 days in Nadi he has been assisted by Greg Mumm and Iosefo Bele two of his assistants in the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

Manager Semi Rogoyawa said they have also brought in the services of Fiji Warriors coach Ifiremi Tawake as he is familiar with what they can expect in front of the Tonga crowd.

Rogoyawa added that while the first game away from home is always tough the players will rise to the occasion next Saturday.