The Natabua High School Under-18 girls rugby team aims to enhance their discipline and fundamental skills as they prepare for the Weet-Bix Raluve Trophy semi-final next week. This statement reflects the insights shared by head coach Inoke Vucago following their impressive 41-0 victory over Nasinu Secondary School on Friday.
Vucago expressed the team’s determination to surpass their quarterfinal exit from the previous year, stating, “We lost in the quarterfinal last year and we came back this year hungry trying to get further than the quarterfinal.” He emphasized the importance of taking one game at a time, noting that the players had adequately prepared for the quarterfinal match.
At halftime, with a 17-0 lead, he advised the players to maintain their momentum by increasing their score. Vucago pointed out that many of the athletes have experience playing in the Marama Championship for under-20 clubs from Nadi, Yasawa, and Lautoka, which has adequately prepared them for the rigors of 40-minute rugby.
As they look to the semi-final, he stressed the need for an improved performance. “I’m very proud of the players as they’ve trained hard and executed 80 percent of their game plan. They were hungry for the win,” he stated.
The coach dedicated the victory to the parents, teachers, and students of NHS, highlighting the team’s strength, particularly in their forwards, who have shown dominance, while also possessing a capable backline for balance.