Ratu Navula College is serious about claiming the Vodafone Deans Trophy, as highlighted by their Under-18 team manager, Mitieli Qumi, following their quarterfinal victory against Mahatma Gandhi Memorial School, where they triumphed 16-10.
In an interview, Qumi expressed the team’s ambition to reestablish the dominance of Western teams in the national finals. “MGM were favorites to win this year,” he noted, acknowledging the challenge they faced. “We looked up to them when we came to Suva since they were a very good team.”
The RNC players proved formidable in defense during the final moments of the match, successfully maintaining their lead against MGM. While Qumi is pleased with the team’s progression to the semifinals, he recognizes the need for further improvement. “There were mistakes but we will regroup and come back a better team,” he stated.
Next up for RNC is a challenging semifinal against the defending Deans Trophy champions, Queen Victoria School. Qumi emphasized their determination, saying, “We are here for business and we are here to play. Our biggest strength is the spiritual support from our families and the school.”