Ratu Navula College’s under-19 rugby team plans to escalate their concerns regarding Lami High School to the Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union (FSSRU) following a narrow defeat of 10-13 in the Vodafone Super Deans semi-final held at Bidesi Ground in Suva.
After the match, Ratu Navula engaged in lengthy discussions about their next steps. Head coach Viliame Bati revealed that a meeting took place on Friday between Ratu Navula, Lami High, and the FSSRU to address certain grievances.
He stated, “During the dialogue, we expressed our concerns about non-student players from Dominion Brothers and FNU who were part of the Lami team. We aimed to have them sidelined for the match yesterday, but the FSSRU indicated that any complaints would need to be addressed post-match.”
Bati noted that the issues raised were not adequately addressed. “We had previously agreed not to allow the four boys to play, yet surprisingly, just before the game, the president confirmed that they would participate.”
He emphasized that these players do not attend school and are affiliated with the Dominion Brothers team, yet they still played. The coach, alongside the players’ parents, voiced their belief that the match was unfair. “The effort and dedication our boys have shown throughout the season deserve recognition. They work hard in training as this opportunity is vital for their future and potential scouting.”
Bati expressed concern for his team, stating, “This was the toughest game we’ve faced, and I feel my boys did not have a fair chance.”
Lami High School declined to comment on the situation, referring all inquiries to the FSSRU. Additionally, Ratu Kadavulevu School previously raised similar concerns after the quarter-finals. A reliable source indicated that at a hearing on Wednesday, no substantial evidence was found to support the claims, and it was confirmed that the players in question were registered students at Lami High School.