The Fiji Bulikula is aware that their upcoming final against Fetu Samoa on Saturday in Auckland, New Zealand, will be a challenging match. This comes on the heels of their victory over Cook Islands, where they secured an 18-6 win at HFC Stadium in Suva last Saturday.
The winner of this final will automatically qualify for the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup, while the runner-up will enter the World Series to compete against other teams, including Ireland, in another qualifying tournament.
Captain Talei Holmes recognizes the tough competition ahead. “We know Samoa is a strong side just like our team,” she stated. Holmes expressed confidence in their coaching staff and the capabilities of her team, saying, “I believe in us; I know we can do it.”
Holmes felt honored to lead the Bulikula to victory in front of their families and supporters. She commended the coaching staff for their selections and for the great job done throughout the year. “I can feel it within the group, and I’m really proud of the girls,” she added.
She was particularly impressed with the performance of the debutants against Cook Islands. “They all stood up, and you could see that everyone gelled so well together,” Holmes noted, emphasizing that they deserved the win as well.
Holmes highlighted the importance of maintaining a solid defensive line, especially when they were trailing 6-0. “We just knew we couldn’t give up,” she said, reflecting on how they regained momentum.
Winger Vitalina Naikore, who scored a hat trick and was named player of the match, was praised by Holmes. “We have strong outside backs and a solid core, which is how we won the game; it wasn’t just one player, it was a team effort,” she remarked, adding, “Having Vitalina on the wing finishing those tries is amazing.”
Head coach Josaia Rabele acknowledged the support of Cronulla Sutherland Sharks women’s coach Tony Herman, who has been instrumental in developing their defensive and offensive strategies. He also thanked the wider coaching staff for their behind-the-scenes work during their Pacific Championship campaign.
Rabele encouraged the players to maintain their strong attack and to make good use of their wingers, commending Naikore and Abigayle Sekitoga as exceptional talents. He recognized the importance of experienced players in nurturing younger teammates, which has been crucial throughout the campaign.
Finally, Rabele expressed gratitude to sponsors and families for their ongoing support, noting, “Sometimes we struggle, but we manage to get through it; I want to thank all the girls for keeping the faith and believing in themselves to achieve the results needed for our Women’s Rugby League World Cup qualifiers.”
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