The Lami High School Under-19 rugby team remained unfazed by the criticism and allegations directed at them during the Vodafone Deans Trophy finals. This was confirmed by head coach Beniamino Kakaivalu following their narrow victory against Queen Victoria School, finishing 20-19 at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Kakaivalu noted that the players were on a social media blackout to help maintain focus and eliminate negative energy. He expressed that this win is just the beginning, as they plan to create an Under-18 team next year to compete for more titles.
Reflecting on their journey, Kakaivalu admitted it was challenging, especially competing in the national qualifiers in Vanua Levu. The team first edged past Dreketi Central College with a score of 24-21 to reach the national quarterfinals, where they shocked the Ratu Kadavulevu School 11-5 and defeated Ratu Navula College 13-10 in the semifinals.
“When we played Ratu Kadavulevu School, I reminded the boys that it was just a matter of school name – our players gave their all, and that resilience was evident in today’s match,” he said.