TEAM discipline was the key focus of Naitasiri Secondary School under-19 rugby team over the week as they prepared for the national quarter-finals of the Vodafone Deans competition against Tailevu North College today.
Following their successful play-off victory against Bua Central College with a score of 24-8 last weekend, the team wasted no time in gearing up for the important upcoming match.
Head coach Rusiate Talebulamai emphasised the importance of discipline for the team, especially after their match against Bua.
Throughout the week, the players were focused on rectifying their mistakes and ensuring they maintained discipline on the field.
“The preparations are going well for the boys throughout the week, the boys are really focused on the match on Saturday,” said Talebulamai.
“Our discipline on the field was our major focus throughout the week, looking at our match against Bua we had two yellow cards, so the boys know their mistake and we are trying to improve on it and move forward.”
Despite having faced Tailevu North College in previous matches, Talebulamai acknowledged that they were not to be underestimated.
The team is determined to give their all in the upcoming match, knowing that their opponents would provide a tough challenge.
Having fallen short in the national semi-final last year, the school is determined to go further this year and ultimately win the Deans U19 competition.
“Last year, we were disappointed to lose in the semi-finals to Queen Victoria School (QVS, this year, we’re thinking differently and aiming to reach the final.”
He adds the competition is getting tougher with each passing year, with teams from Vanualevu showcasing impressive talent on the field.
Talebulamai expressed confidence in his team’s readiness for the upcoming showdown and called on parents and supporters of Naitasiri Secondary School to come in numbers to show their support.
The match between Tailevu North College and Naitasiri Secondary School was scheduled to take place at 12pm at King Charles Park 1 in Nadi today.