Etonia Taivoce, the victorious manager, dedicated the Wardens’ triumph in the 31st R.C Manubhai tournament to all officers of the Fiji Corrections Service. The team emerged victorious with a close score of 10-5 against the BLK Lavidi Brothers at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori on Saturday.
Reflecting on the challenging match, Taivoce expressed gratitude to God for their strength and emphasized the importance of teamwork, especially at halftime when he reminded the players to stay focused. He also praised the determination exhibited by his young team members in both offense and defense.
“This win is for our families as well,” Taivoce remarked, highlighting the personal connections that motivate the team. Following their victory, he noted that the players would take a one-week break before gearing up for future competitions, specifically setting sights on the Labasa sevens tournament next year. As part of their acknowledgment, the Wardens took home a prize of $5,000, while the Lavidi Brothers received $3,000.
Netava Koroisau, the halfback who played a pivotal role in the final, described the win as a gift for their colleagues at work, embodying the spirit of hard work and determination. He mentioned the strong support from their families throughout the tournament, instilling motivation within the team. His late try during extra time was crucial in securing the victory after a tie at 5-5 at the end of regulation time.
Koroisau, who made his debut for the national sevens side at the 2023 Dubai Sevens, expressed his commitment to continue training and improving after this tournament. He conveyed heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported them throughout their journey.
This victory not only highlights the dedication of the team but also serves as an inspiring reminder of resilience and teamwork in sports, resonating with the wider community they represent.
Overall, the success of the Wardens serves as a beacon of hope for both the players and the corrections officers, illustrating the strength found in unity and perseverance in times of challenge.
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