We aim to go a notch higher in 2025.

This was the gist of Lautoka Rugby Union head coach Penioni Ranitu during an interview with SUNsports yesterday.

He said the year 2024 had been a great year for the club as they proved critics wrong and made big teams run for their money.

“It has been a great year for the team.

“We were hoping to reach the Skipper Cup quater-finals but we fell short this year,” he said.

Ranitu added he was impressed with the boys who bounced back and created history by winning the Farebrother Sullivan Trophy after a lapse of 21 years.

Lautoka defeated holders Nadi 16-10 at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka in their first challenge this year.

The team’s utility back and Drua flyhalf Isikeli Rabitu was named man of the match who scored a decisive try and kicked two penalties which sealed the upset win for the side.

“Thanks to the preparation we had beginning of this year.

“The boys played together and improved week in and week out,” he added.

Ranitu said the team’s aim this year was to blend in the young ply-ers with the senior lot which paid off in the season.

“We wanted game time for our young boys.

“We believe this year we were able to give our players equal oppportunity to do so,” he said.

Aim for 2025
Lautoka Rugby Union will look to take it up a notch next year.

Ranitu revealed the team’s perforomance this year has influenced the players and coaches to work hard for more next year.

“We want to go a notch up next year.

“We are aiming to reach the Skipper Cup quarter-finals or the semi-finals or even the finals,” he said.

He said the team will undergo the usual preparation and that is pre-season training to prepare for the new year.

“We have some new players that will come in but we want to build a depth squad that will do the damage.

“The game has evolved alot and most teams are competitive.

“We will not only be making the numbers next year but we will look to make the headlines,” he said.

He said the team will also work hard to challenge and hold the Farebrother Sulllivan trophy for the season.

Rabitu, the kid to watch in 2025
Lautoka Maroons and Swire Ship-ping Fijian Drua flyhalf Isikeli Rabitu has been named in the 22 promising U21’s for 2025 list by RugbyPass.

Coach Ranitu has described Rabitu as a consistent player in the Skipper competition for Lautoka.

“Even though he didn’t have alot of game time for the Drua, he still performed well for Lautoka.

“He has improved alot throughout the competition,” he said.

Ranitu said 2025 will be a big year for Rabitu as he will look to stamp his mark and make his name in the Super Rugby arena.

Feedback: josua.buredua@fijisun.com.fj