Losing four key backline players to the Fijian Drua is not an excuse for the Namosi rugby side as they prepare for their clash against Northland in the Skipper Cup competition today.
Namosi Rugby Union chairman Puamau Sowane said other teams had also lost players to the Drua and other overseas-based clubs and they had no complaints about it.
“We are no different from any other team. Naitasiri have also lost players to overseas clubs. We have other players in the team who have stepped in to fill the gaps. There has been a huge gap left behind but the young players are stepping up to it,” Sowane said.
Namosi lost Vinaya Habosi, Onisi Ratave, Peni Matawalu and Kalaveti Ravouvou, who were quite influential for the side in previous seasons, to the Drua this year.
The side suffered a first round loss to Naitasiri before bouncing back to beat Rewa last weekend. Sowane said they did not underestimate Northland because all teams were strong in this year’s competition.
“We are preparing well for the game but right now no team can be taken lightly. Every team is unpredictable because they have all improved.”
He added that losing the Farebrother Challenge to Naitasiri was disappointing but the side was now concentrating on the Skipper Cup competition.
“We will now concentrate on the Skipper Cup. Should there be a change in hand of the holder of the Farebrother, we will be ready to take up the challenge again.”
Namosi takes on Northland at Gatward Park at 3pm today.
