Lautoka Rugby Union head coach Penioni Ranitu shared his aspirations for 2025 during an interview, expressing a strong desire to elevate the team’s performance in the upcoming season. Reflecting on a successful 2024, he noted that the team exceeded expectations, notably facing off against prominent teams and proving detractors wrong.
Ranitu acknowledged that while the team fell short of reaching the Skipper Cup quarter-finals this year, their achievement of winning the Farebrother Sullivan Trophy for the first time in 21 years marked a significant milestone. They secured this victory by defeating the reigning champions, Nadi, in a closely contested match at Lawaqa Park, with player Isikeli Rabitu outstandingly contributing with a try and two pivotal penalties.
The coach highlighted the importance of preparation and teamwork, emphasizing that the goal for the year was to integrate younger players with seasoned teammates. This strategy appeared successful, as it allowed the younger talents to gain valuable experience throughout the season.
Looking ahead, Ranitu is determined to build on this year’s successes and aims to reach the Skipper Cup quarter-finals or even progress to the finals in 2025. He mentioned plans for rigorous pre-season training, the introduction of new players, and a commitment to developing a robust squad capable of making waves in the competition.
Additionally, Isikeli Rabitu has been identified as a rising star, having made it onto RugbyPass’s list of promising U21 players for 2025. Coach Ranitu praised Rabitu’s consistency and growth during the season and noted that the next year could be pivotal for his development in the Super Rugby arena.
In summary, Lautoka Rugby Union is poised for an ambitious 2025, with aims to improve their standing and continue nurturing young talent within the team. The combination of strategic planning and the drive to succeed bodes well for the future of the Lautoka rugby community. This optimism is a refreshing takeaway, demonstrating the team’s resilience and potential to make a bigger impact in the upcoming season.
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