The Fiji Bulikula women’s rugby league team is gearing up to face the Cook Islands Moana this weekend in a crucial match that will determine their qualification for the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup. Head coach Joe Rabele emphasized the importance of the upcoming game following the team’s first training session at Albert Park in Suva.
“This is the most important game of their lives, especially since it is being played on our home soil in Fiji,” Rabele stated. “We aim to defend our turf, and this is also a World Cup qualifier.”
Rabele acknowledged the recent loss of the Vodafone Fiji Bati to the Papua New Guinea Kumuls, viewing it as a learning opportunity for his team. “The Bati didn’t secure a victory last week, so we’re learning from their experience to better prepare ourselves for this World Cup qualifier,” he said.
As part of their preparation, the team is focusing on refining their attack strategies and enhancing team dynamics. To foster camaraderie, the Bulikula squad participated in a church service at Qauia Village, seeking spiritual guidance and reflection ahead of their training sessions throughout the week.
The Bulikula will compete against the Moana on Saturday at 6 PM at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.