Fiji Builkula engaged in a training session at Albert Park yesterday as they prepare for their opening match against the Cook Islands Moana team in the second week of the 2024 Pacific Championships. Team captain Talei Holmes addressed the media after the practice, emphasizing the need for improvement in key areas throughout the week.
“We came together to work on both our attack and defense, covering all the movements we’ll be using going forward,” Holmes stated. “It was nice to get together and handle the ball for a while.”
Holmes recognized the physical strength of their opponents, particularly in the center of the field. “We need to reinforce our ruck; there are some strong players on their side, and solid defense will be crucial for our success in the game,” she mentioned.
Having ties to Taveuni Island in the north, Holmes shared that team morale is high after entering camp at the Grand Pacific Hotel on Saturday and attending a church service at the Qauia Methodist Church in Lami on Sunday.
“We’ve already established a bond off the field. We’re conducting team devotions and meetings, which I believe is very important,” she added. “There’s a strong connection forming, which was evident in our practice today, and we’ve been able to build on that.”