Winning manager Etonia Taivoce dedicated their 31st R.C Manubhai win to all the Fiji Corrections Service officers.

This was after their Wardens side defeated BLK Lavidi Brothers, 10 – 5, in the cup final at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori on Saturday.

“It was a tough match,” Taivoce said.

“We acknowledge the effort by our opponents and I’m grateful to God for giving us the strength to win.

“We told the players not to lose focus and work together on the field at halftime.”

Taivoce said he was appreciative of the effort on the field shown by his young players.

“These prison officers showed tremendous character in attack and defense,” he said.

“This win is also dedicated to our families.”

Taivoce said the team will have one week break before they resume their preparations for future tournaments.

“We will prepare next year for the Labasa sevens tournament,” he said.

The green and gold side walked away with $5000 prize money. Lavidi settled with $3000.

Koroisau shines in final

Halfback Netava Koroisau said he knew there were high expectations for the team in the final.

“This win is our Christmas and New Year’s present for our colleagues back at work,” he said.

“We were advised to keep working hard for that win till the final hooter.”

Koroisau said their family has been their biggest strength in their tournament campaign.

“I will go back to work and keep training after this tournament,” he said.

“I want to thank everyone that has supported us in the tournament.”

Koroisau scored a late try at extra time to seal the win for Wardens after both teams were tied 5 – all at fulltime.

He debuted for the national sevens side at the 2023 Dubai Sevens.

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