The Fiji Bulikula is gearing up for a challenging final against Fetu Samoa this Saturday in Auckland, New Zealand. This matchup follows their victory over the Cook Islands, where they secured an 18-6 win at HFC Stadium in Suva last Saturday.
The stakes are high, as the winner will qualify automatically for the 2026 women’s rugby league world cup, while the runner-up will enter the World Series to compete against other nations, including Ireland, for another chance to qualify.
Captain Talei Holmes recognizes the formidable challenge ahead. “We know Samoa is a strong side all over the park, just like our team,” she said. Holmes expressed confidence in their coaching staff and the team’s capabilities, stating, “I believe in us; I know we can do it.”
Holmes felt privileged to lead the Bulikula to victory in front of their home crowd. “Credit to our coaching staff for selecting the players; they have done an amazing job with us this year, which showed on the field,” she remarked. She expressed pride in the debutants, who performed admirably against the Cook Islands. “They all stood up and gelled so well together, so I’m proud of the debutants as they deserve the win too,” she added.
Holmes emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline, particularly when the team trailed 6-0. “We knew we couldn’t give up and scored next, regaining momentum,” she said.
Winger Vitalina Naikore received special recognition for her outstanding performance, scoring a hat trick. “We have strong outside backs and a solid middle, which is how we won the game; it wasn’t one player, it was all of us,” Holmes noted. “Having Vitalina on the wing finishing those tries for us is amazing.”
Head coach Josaia Rabele credited Tony Herman, the women’s coach of the Cronulla Sutherland Sharks, for his support in shaping their defensive and offensive strategies during the match. Rabele emphasized the importance of their coaching staff and the efforts behind the scenes for their Pacific Championship campaign.
Rabele encouraged the team to keep pushing in their attacking play and to utilize their wingers effectively. “Both Naikore and Abigayle Sekitoga are the best wingers,” he said. He recognized the leadership of experienced players and their connection with the younger athletes as a key factor in their success.
Rabele expressed gratitude towards the sponsors and families who have supported the team throughout their journey. “Sometimes we struggle, but we manage to get there; I want to thank all the girls for keeping the faith and believing in themselves to achieve the results we need in our women’s rugby league world cup qualifiers campaign.”
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