The Cook Islands Moana team has been eliminated from the race for a World Cup spot following a 6-18 defeat to the Fiji Bulikula at the HFC Bank Stadium last Saturday.
Head coach Rusty Matua said that the Fijian team outperformed them in both attack and defense. “We weren’t good enough, and congratulations to the Bulikula for being stronger and for managing to halt our momentum,” he stated. Matua noted that while the players put in effort, their skills were lacking.
He expressed disappointment, stating that his team was caught off guard by the Bulikula, despite having prepared well for the Pacific Championship campaign. “Fiji showed up and taught us how to play footy, especially in terms of dominating the ruck,” he remarked.
Captain Kiana Takairangi acknowledged the support from fans despite the loss, saying, “I spoke to some of our players and felt sorry, as I believe I let my team down.” She expressed the disappointment of her team and the nation, uncertain if they would have another chance in the future.
Takairangi also shared her pride in captaining the Cook Islands Moana alongside her brother, Brad Takairangi, who led the Cook Islands Aitu men’s team. “We’re proud Cook Islanders, and doing this together in Fiji feels very special,” she added.
Coach Matua expressed gratitude to the Fijian people for their hospitality and thanked the National Rugby League for establishing the tournament, emphasizing the honor and privilege of representing their heritage and Pacific culture alongside their Pacific neighbors.
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