The Fiji Bulikula women’s rugby league team is gearing up for a crucial match against the Cook Islands Moana this weekend, as they seek to secure a spot in the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup. Head coach Joe Rabele emphasized the significance of this game during an interview held after the team’s first training session at Albert Park in Suva.
“This is the most important game of their lives, especially since we are playing in Fiji, on our home ground,” Rabele said. He highlighted the team’s intention to defend their home turf, noting that the match serves as a World Cup qualifier.
Rabele also reflected on the recent performance of the Vodafone Fiji Bati men’s team, which faced a defeat against the Papua New Guinea Kumuls. He mentioned that this loss would motivate the Bulikula team to better prepare for their upcoming qualifier.
“We learned from the Bati’s experience last week, and we aim to prepare ourselves thoroughly for this World Cup qualifier,” Rabele added. The team is focused on refining their attack structures and enhancing key elements of their play in the lead-up to the match against the Cook Islands.
To strengthen team camaraderie, the Bulikula players participated in a church service at Qauia Village, seeking spiritual guidance and reflection as they began their training preparations for the week.
The Bulikula will face the Moana team this Saturday at 6 PM at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.