Naitasiri Rugby Union kicked off their Skipper Cup title defense with a strong 39-16 victory over newcomers Malolo. Despite the impressive win, captain Asiveli Rokoua emphasized the need for improvement ahead of their upcoming match against Tailevu. The team faced challenges with discipline during the game, which saw them receive three yellow cards, keeping Malolo within reach for significant portions of the contest.
Rokoua acknowledged the effort that Malolo put forth in their return to top-tier rugby, commending their intensity, especially in the physical aspect of the game. He stated, “We’ll take the win and be happy, but there’s a lot of takeaways and work-ons—our mistakes that we need to improve before next week.”
The pressure on Naitasiri, as they defend the Farebrother Trophy during home matches, is palpable, especially against teams like Tailevu, who approach the game with everything to gain. Rokoua noted, “When they come to challenge you and you have to defend the cup, it’s very hard. We had so much to lose.”
Looking ahead, Naitasiri will be competing against Tailevu in their next match at Ratu Cakobau Park, which will also serve as their second defense of the Farebrother Trophy. This match promises to be crucial as the team aims to maintain their strong performance while addressing areas of concern from their opening match.
The enthusiasm surrounding the Skipper Cup season highlights the resilience and competitive spirit within Fiji’s rugby community. Fans can expect dynamic matches as teams, including Malolo, strive to make significant impacts in their performances—demonstrating the ongoing evolution and passion for the sport in the region.
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