Ratu Navula College is determined to claim the Vodafone Deans Trophy this year. This commitment was expressed by Mitieli Qumi, the manager of the RNC Under-18 team, following their hard-fought quarterfinal victory over Mahatma Gandhi Memorial School, which ended with a score of 16-10.
In an interview, Qumi emphasized that their objective is to restore the Western teams’ supremacy in the national finals. “MGM were favorites to win this year,” he noted, acknowledging the strength of their opponents. “We regarded them highly when we arrived in Suva as they are a very talented team.”
The RNC players showcased formidable defensive skills, particularly in the final moments of the match, successfully keeping MGM from scoring. Qumi acknowledged that while reaching the semifinal is an achievement, there is still potential for improvement. “There were mistakes, but we will regroup and return as a stronger team,” he remarked.
RNC is set to compete against the reigning Deans Trophy champions, Queen Victoria School, in the semifinal. “We are here for business and we are here to play. Our greatest strength comes from the spiritual support of our families and our school,” Qumi stated.