The Vodafone Fiji Bati have ramped up their training intensity this week in anticipation of a crucial match against the Cook Islands tomorrow at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Bati head coach Wise Kativerata confirmed this to SUNsports.
Kativerata emphasized that the focus for the week is on completing their sets and improving their kicking. He stated, “We know we can score points anywhere, but we can’t do that if we’re always on the back foot.” He noted the importance of avoiding mistakes made in last Saturday’s game against Papua New Guinea.
“This is a significant game as we aim to finish the Pacific Bowl Championship on a high note. Credit goes to Papua New Guinea, but our boys must be ready for the Cook Islands,” he added.
Kativerata expressed his excitement about the arrival of international rugby league in Fiji, acknowledging the support from the crowd and the pathway being created for future Fiji Bati players ahead of the next World Cup.
He also mentioned that he has been pleased with the players’ communication during training, noting that they are talking more and enjoying the practice sessions. Additionally, he highlighted James Valevatu’s strong performances for Wests in the reserve grade, indicating an interest in evaluating him further this week.
The coach plans to assess player performances at the conclusion of the tournament. Notably, several Bati players in the NRL, including Api Koroisau, Mika Ravalawa, Daniel Safaiti, Jacob Safaiti, Marcelo Montoya, and Reagan Campbell-Gillard, were unable to participate in the championship due to injuries and suspensions.
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