AJ Pallets Ba River, the reigning under-21 champions from Votua village in Ba, showcased their prowess and determination on the first day of competition, proving why they are still the team to beat. They began their tournament with a convincing 12-0 victory against Midland, followed by a commanding 31-5 win over Namara, clearly signaling their intentions.
Coach Mikaele Nawaikada expressed pride in his team’s efforts but also acknowledged the challenges that come with defending a title. “Even though we had a slow start, I’m glad the boys came through well. It’s not easy to have a target on your back, but they worked hard and stuck to the plan,” he noted.
With the championship at stake, Nawaikada emphasized that the team understands the importance of staying focused. “Every team wants to take us down, so we need to be even sharper in the next matches. We’re taking it one game at a time, but the boys are hungry to keep this trophy,” he stated.
In addition to their impressive performance on the field, the team has received accolades for their discipline and teamwork, qualities that Nawaikada believes will help them navigate the tougher challenges ahead. “It’s all about preparation and the mindset. We’ve got a long way to go, but if the boys keep playing like this, we’re in a good place,” he added.
The upcoming pool match will be vital as they aim to secure their berth in the knockout stages and continue their quest to retain the championship.
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