The Kaite rugby team celebrated a hard-fought 10-5 victory over Gau at the Buckhurst ground in the HFC Bank Stadium, successfully advancing to the plate semi-finals of the Flame Tree Waimanu Sevens Competition. The intense match concluded with a tie at 5-5, leading to a sudden death scenario, where Kaite secured their win with a remarkable try, thrilling their loyal supporters.
Despite this triumph, Coach Necani Railati expressed his disappointment in the team’s failure to qualify for the main division, emphasizing their commitment to ending the tournament on a high note. “Since we fell short yesterday, the message was clear: we need to prove ourselves today,” he stated.
In a strategic move to nurture talent, Kaite fielded their development team during the competition, offering essential experience to their younger players, aged mostly between 19 and 20. Railati pointed out that this approach not only aids in skill development but also serves a greater purpose by keeping these young athletes away from peer pressure and the pervasive drug-related issues affecting many communities in Fiji.
As they prepare for their semi-final match, Railati recognized the importance of enhancing their defensive strategies. He noted the distinct physical differences, stating, “Our young players are small compared to most of these teams, so we will need to step up defensively. But our defensive patterns will vary according to the opponents’ strategies.”
The Kaite Rugby Club, hailing from the village of Nakorosule in Naitasiri, is a community-oriented team, with its roster drawing players from Nakorosule, Waibalavu, and Waisomo. The commitment to youth development and local community involvement showcases the club’s dedication to fostering talent and promoting positive values among the younger generation.
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