The newly established Vatukoro team from Ra recently made a noteworthy appearance at the Fiji Sports Council’s under-20 7s tournament, which took place at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Their journey showcased both talent and perseverance, especially during the bowl quarter-final against the Untouched Rugby team, where they claimed a decisive 12-0 victory.
The team’s strong defensive strategy was on full display during the match, with player Malakai Rokomua playing a key role in contributing to the scoreboard in the first half. Marika Dreudreu later solidified this success with a crucial try in the second half, securing the win.
Head coach Ilai Nameke praised the youthful squad, noting their recent formation and objective of providing young players with invaluable rugby experience. The Vatukoro team has shown commendable results in the past four Fiji Sports Council under-20 7s events, including an impressive victory at the Mataso 7s.
“We have a really young team competing in this event; they only joined two months ago to allow these boys to experience rugby,” Nameke shared. Although the team didn’t advance to the main cup final, their performance in the bowl quarter-final marks a significant achievement.
The Vatukoro team is dedicated to developing their skills and gaining further experience as they continue their journey in future competitions. They aim to participate in all tournaments, including the Fiji Bitter series, providing these young athletes with enriching experiences and memorable moments in rugby.
The team expressed their sincere appreciation to their supporters, parents, and the Ra community for their steadfast encouragement, reinforcing the idea that teamwork and community spirit are crucial components of their success.
Summary:
The Vatukoro team from Ra impressed at the Fiji Sports Council’s under-20 7s tournament, achieving a 12-0 victory against Untouched Rugby in the bowl quarter-final. Under the guidance of head coach Ilai Nameke, the youthful team showcases resilience and a commitment to gaining experience in the sport. Their participation in future tournaments highlights their dedication to developing young rugby talent, and they extend gratitude to their local community for support.
This story embodies the spirit of youth sports and community collaboration, showcasing how new teams can thrive with encouragement and determination.

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