The focus of the Dee Cees Nadera Panthers is to develop their players so they could secure rugby league contracts with overseas clubs.

This was the gist of Panthers manager Rodney Nair’s interview with SUNsports yesterday.

“We don’t hold on to our players as soon as they find employment or play for a rugby league club overseas,” he said.

“This season consists of a new set of team.”

Nair said they had re-strategise this season as most of their players normally played rugby union and they were faced with a few challenges.

“It was pretty hard for our coach Vula Dakuitoga to get players together and build them up to this stage.

“Dakuitoga is one of the most successful rugby league coaches in Fiji.”

Despite all the obstacles, the Panthers secured a spot in tomorrow’s Vodafone Cup national quarterfinals where they face newcomers Waitaci Titans.

“Our aim is play to the best of our ability and try to get back our lost title. We believe in ourselves as we know how intense the  situation is.

Nair said the players are confident of winning against the Titans at Sigatoka’s Lawaqa Park.

“The coach has confidence in the players because their attitude towards diet and training has been good.

“We are urging the Nadera rugby league fans to come out to witness the Panthers create another history in the Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Cup.”

Nair said four of their players have left the club to join the Fiji Police Force and Fiji Navy.

Feedback: ioane.asioli@fijisun.com.fj