The Nadi under-20 rugby team celebrated a remarkable victory at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, defeating Naitasiri with a nail-biting score of 29-28 in the Skipper Cup U20 final. The team, trailing 8-21 at halftime, showcased an impressive comeback that energized both players and supporters alike.
Captain Samuela Ravono Navale expressed his pride in the team’s performance and credited his teammates for their resilience. “Hats off to them, and hats off also to the boys for giving a good game,” he said, acknowledging the loud support from the crowd, particularly the Naitasiri fans who turned out in large numbers. Navale dedicated the victory to their supporters, stating, “We just wanted to win the game for our supporters, our Nadi family. Well, we did it today, and the win is for them.”
Navale also highlighted the substantial improvements made by the team in their line-outs and mauls, areas that were vital following their semi-final victory over Ba. “Our mauls, which we executed a bit of today, were about 80 percent effective, with only 20 percent of the ball lost during line-ups,” he noted.
The captain shared the guiding principles that drove the team’s performance: playing with heart, pride, and purpose. He emphasized that these values were crucial in pushing the team to overcome the deficit and achieve victory.
In recognition of their efforts, Nadi was awarded $5,000 in prize money, further enhancing the significance of their win. This victory not only showcases the potential of the young players but also signifies a bright future for Nadi rugby as they continue to develop their skills and competitive edge in Fiji’s rugby scene. The success of the U20 team reflects the dedication and promise within the broader community, leaving many fans hopeful for even more achievements in the future.
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