THE Fiji Bulikula will prepare for their next Women’s Rugby League World Cup match against the PNG Orchids on their home turf in Port Moresby this Saturday, following their defensive effort against New Zealand.
Second rower Talei Holmes said Fiji’s ability to compete came from the work they put into containing New Zealand’s powerful forward pack.
The Bulikula were beaten 12-18.
“Our focus for the week was our middle ‘D’. We knew how impressive the Kiwis pack was, so we had to muscle up and compete,” Holmes told AAP.
“That got us into the game and kept us there. We just stuck together and had each other’s backs.”
The performance provides a platform for the Bulikula to build on as they prepare to face a PNG side that opened its campaign with a commanding 58-4 win over France.
Fiji will need to reproduce that defensive commitment against the Orchids, who will be looking to carry their attacking form into their home match.
Holmes said the Bulikula were also benefiting from greater experience and stronger connections within the squad as they make their inaugural World Cup appearance.
“It’s really exciting what we can put on. We’ve got a lot more experience this year, and we’ve boosted the coaching staff,” she said.
“I also feel we’re more connected this time. It’s a perfect recipe for the World Cup.”
Fiji have played only seven Test matches since being admitted to the International Rugby League in 2019, making their performance against New Zealand a significant measure of the progress the side has made.
Holmes missed the 2025 Pacific Championships following the birth of her daughter, Bobbi Lei, but has returned to a squad featuring 10 players with NRLW experience.
Among them are her Cronulla Sharks teammate Cassie Staples, Dragons winger Maria Paseka, Canberra Raiders centre Isabella Waterman and Sydney Roosters premiership winner Taina Naividi.
With the Orchids next on the schedule, Holmes expects another demanding contest.
“We know it’ll be another really hard game next week but we’re ready, bring it on,” she said.
