In just over a year since arriving in France, Setareki Turagacoke has quickly established himself in the rugby scene. The 18-year-old, a former student at Lelean Memorial School, recently celebrated his debut in Top 14 rugby, along with earning his first Test cap for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians.
Turagacoke was called up last minute to replace the injured lock Isoa Nasilasila. He made a significant impact during his debut match, contributing to Fiji’s 33-19 victory over Spain at the José Zorrilla Stadium in Valladolid, where he was one of the five players to score a try.
Head coach Mick Byrne emphasized that the key to their win was patience. The halftime score saw Fiji trailing 7-10, having scored only through Ponipate Loganimasi. However, the team came back strong in the second half, scoring four unanswered tries. Caleb Muntz was particularly effective, converting four out of five tries, with additional scores coming from Sireli Maqala, Sam Matavesi, and captain Waisea Nayacalevu.
Byrne acknowledged areas that needed improvement, particularly their possession game. He noted that the team struggled to maintain possession during the first half and emphasized the importance of sticking to their game plan and showing resilience.
Looking ahead, Fiji is set to face Ireland in their final Test match at Aviva Stadium in Dublin on Sunday. This match marks the sixth encounter between the two teams, with Ireland holding a 5-0 winning record in previous meetings. Their last match ended with Ireland defeating Fiji 35-17 during the 2022 Autumn Series.
Nayacalevu praised the dynamics of Spanish rugby, stating the team prepared to be physically ready for the match, and expressed enthusiasm for playing in the stadium.
This rapid rise for Turagacoke is a promising indicator for the future of Fijian rugby, showcasing young talent at the international level. The upcoming match against Ireland presents a vital opportunity for the team to further develop their skills and strategies against a tough opponent. Each game contributes to their growth, resilience, and experience in the competitive landscape of rugby.
Overall, the trajectory of Turagacoke and the Flying Fijians is an inspiring story of ambition and potential in the world of sports.
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