Etonia Taivoce, the victorious manager, dedicated the 31st R.C Manubhai win to the officers of the Fiji Corrections Service after the Wardens team triumphed over BLK Lavidi Brothers with a score of 10 – 5 in a gripping cup final held at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori on Saturday.
“It was a tough match,” Taivoce acknowledged, expressing gratitude for the support from above that aided their victory. He emphasized the need for the players to maintain focus and teamwork during halftime, highlighting the significant contributions from the younger members of the team. “These prison officers displayed remarkable character in both attack and defense,” he noted. Taivoce also dedicated the win to the players’ families, reinforcing the sense of community and support that bolsters their efforts on the field.
Following this impressive achievement, Taivoce mentioned that the team would take a one-week break before gearing up for future tournaments, specifically preparing for the Labasa sevens tournament next year. Their victory also came with a financial reward, as the team secured $5,000, while Lavidi received $3,000.
Halfback Netava Koroisau, who played a crucial role in the final, expressed the sense of expectation surrounding the team. “This win is our Christmas and New Year’s present for our colleagues back at work,” he said. His commitment to hard work until the last moment of the match proved fruitful, as Koroisau scored a late try during extra time, sealing the victory for the Wardens after a 5 – 5 deadlock at full time.
With his recent debut for the national sevens side at the 2023 Dubai Sevens, Koroisau’s performance is indicative of the team’s bright future. He acknowledged the support from family throughout their tournament journey, displaying the intertwined relationships between their personal lives and athletic pursuits. “I will go back to work and keep training after this tournament,” he committed.
This victory serves as a reminder of the dedication and hard work that athletes put forth, as well as the importance of familial and community support, laying a solid foundation for future endeavors and aspirations in sports.
Ultimately, the team’s resilience and commitment not only reflect their strength on the field but also their shared goal of uplifting their communities, making this victory a truly meaningful achievement.
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