The Lami High School Under-19 rugby team remained unfazed by the criticisms and allegations directed at them during the Vodafone Deans Trophy finals. This was shared by head coach Beniamino Kakaivalu after their narrow victory against Queen Victoria School, winning 20-19 at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Kakaivalu explained that the players opted for a social media blackout to help them concentrate on the game and eliminate any negative distractions.
He expressed optimism about the future, revealing that they plan to field an Under-18 team next year to compete for additional titles.
Reflecting on their journey, Kakaivalu noted the challenges faced, including a trip to Vanua Levu for the national qualifiers. They secured their spot in the national quarterfinals by defeating Dreketi Central College 24-21 and then achieved significant upsets against Ratu Kadavulevu School 11-5 and Ratu Navula College 13-10 in the semifinals.
Kakaivalu emphasized that despite the formidable reputation of their competitors, his players fought fiercely, a quality they displayed once again in the finals.