After watching his players take the Plate trophy at the opening round of the HSBC Sevens World Series on the Gold Coast, Fiji's new coach Ben Ryan vowed that they would be a lot better in Dubai.

Ryan promised a fitter side and a more prepared side and that is what he believes he has now as the Fijians bid to win a first Emirates Dubai Rugby Sevens title since the start of the Series back in 1999.

"I have been with the boys for the last month, going to some of the islands and watching some of the tournaments there," said the former England coach, who took over just a week or so before the start of the season.

"We have had some long training camps to narrow the squad down, which was tough. I publicly spoke about their fitness levels, and they've got on with it. 

"They've been flogged in almost every session and they've also started to learn a bit more about what to eat and how to rest and recover. They've been like sponges, been outstanding, and I've been pleased with their progress so far."

Ryan has a mixed history in the last three years in Dubai. In 2010 and 2011 he and England won the Cup, beating Fiji en route to those titles, but 12 months ago they had their worst ever tournament in the history of the Series, winning the bottom-tier Shield. 

Past meets present

As in the Gold Coast quarter-finals, Ryan comes face-to-face with his former side on day one here. In Australia it was England and new coach Simon Amor who edged the islanders, but Ryan believes his squad will have enough fitness and enough support to help in their title bid. 

"I had forgotten about last year before someone reminded me about it yesterday," joked Ryan, whose men also face USA and Canada on day one.

"But I have had some great memories here and going in the clubhouse seeing pictures of those wins has been brilliant. It is a great atmosphere, and Fiji are often many people's second team, if not their first, so I am sure the boys will not lack crowd support, particularly the way we play."

So what 'way' will Fiji be playing under Ryan?

"We will score some stellar tries this weekend and hopefully our defence will be robust and solid and we will see how far that takes us. 

"We have some great pace and steppers and with Pio Tuwai back he is a lovely footballer and will benefit the squad.

"They are the sort of team that will react to a big crowd. We have four newcomers and there is always that cross-your-fingers and hope they get into it, but I have a sneaky suspicion they'll react really well and play the house down."

Watch live coverage of the Sevens in Dubai streamed live on irbsevens.com. Geo-blocking may apply. Details >>