“We respect Nadroga as they are the rugby giants, although we had beaten them to retain the Farebrother trophy they (Nadroga) are the powerhouse of rugby here,” Ratu Peceli said.
Naitasiri and Swire Shipping Fijian Drua lock Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta leads his forwards against Macuata during their quarter-final match at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori on June 8, 2024. Photo: Leon Lord
Determination is a quality that has been giving Naitasiri the edge this season.
Naitasiri Rugby Union president Ratu Peceli Rinakama with a few days left for their semi-final match against Nadroga acknowledged that all teams are fit but only those that are determined will win.
“We respect Nadroga as they are the rugby giants, although we had beaten them to retain the Farebrother trophy they (Nadroga) are the powerhouse of rugby here,” Ratu Peceli said.
“Our players have been prepared physically, spiritually and the works.
“Soon after their win against Macuata plans for the next match was laid on Saturday.
“The players are off alcohol since they wrestled the Farebrother from Lautoka, they are determined to reward the Gone Turaga na Qaranivalu.”
Ratu Peceli explained that the achievements of the provincial side need to be commended.
It is timely that Ratu Inoke Takiveikata is continuing the legacy of his late older brother Ratu Savenaca Naulivou Qiolevu.
According to Ratu Peceli this is all God’s plan with Ratu Inoke returning to his people and uniting them through rugby.
“The support of the vanua is overwhelming the players have been camping at Navuso with the chiefs and leaders supporting them.
“Their winning streak has brought the 16 tikina (districts) together and the spirit of veilomani among the vanua and her people is humbling.
“Everyone wants to back the winning team and Naitasiri is no different, the wins have been calling together the people of Naitasiri and those connected to the province through blood and support.
“With the match now played on Ratu Cakobau Park it is our responsibility to defend the grounds as people of the Kubuna confederacy.”
Suva’s backrow Isoa Tuwai leads the attack at Albert Park, Suva on June 8, 2024.
Photo: Ronald Kumar
Ratu Peceli said the coaching team has been reviewing their past games and tightening things up at training.
“All the teams playing in the Skipper Cup competition are fit, all of them have and are preparing well,” he said.
“Naitasiri is training to play the full 80 minutes; they are playing right to the last whistle.
“Now that we have the Farebrother we also want the Skipper.”
In the other men’s semi-final match defending champions Suva is facing Nadi.
Ratu Peceli is appreciative of how women rugby has developed and improved.
“Our senior women side are out but they would be back next year,” he said.
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