The Flying Fijians are hoping another week in camp will make a world of difference when they take on Ireland in Dublin.

The Pacific Nations Cup holders opened their Northern Tour with a 19-10 defeat by Italy in Catania at the weekend, who the home side avenging their loss in Suva in June.

The result denied Fiji a chance to overtake France in the test rankings and Coach John McKee says they struggled for cohesion with the squad having come together at short notice from all corners of the globe.

McKee says some changes are likely for the match against Ireland, who are coming off a 38-3 demolition of South Africa.

The Flying Fijians take on Ireland at 6.30am on Sunday.