Despite being new to the sport, the Bua Sea Eagles from Vanua Levu displayed their determination after their 48-12 defeat to the experienced RKS Eels, in the Vodafone Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby League Bati Challenge at St Marcellin grounds yesterday.
The team showed promise by securing a notable 12-0 victory in round one against Sila last week, despite still being in the process of learning the sport.
Coach Peni Bolatolu expressed his pride in the team’s progress during the two-week preparation period leading up to the competition. He emphasized the players’ love for rugby and their dedication to learning and adapting to a new sport.
Despite the challenges posed by their relative lack of experience in rugby league, and noted the heartfelt passion and determination exhibited by the team.
“Rugby league is something new to the boys but the passion for it and trying to learn and experience is something that is heartwarming to see it in the boys,” said Bolatolu.
“Playing against strong and big schools like RKS is something we have to take, in order for the team to learn and gain knowledge about the game and do better.”
He also acknowledged some players’ financial commitment in paying for their own boat fare to travel to Vitilevu for the competition, emphasizing their unwavering dedication to the sport.
The coach expressed sincere gratitude to the school principal, staff, and ex-scholar supporters for their unwavering encouragement and support. Looking ahead, he conveyed strong optimism for the Bua Sea Eagles’ future performances, affirming their determination to bounce back even stronger.
Meanwhile, in other matches Schoolboys round two competition: U17 Nasinu Panther 16-4 Gospel Saints, Marist Storms 20-0 CMF Saints, U19 Bua Sea Eagles 12-48 RKS Eels, Pherrus Schoolgirls competition: Namosi Titans 14-8 John Wesley, Wainimala 22-4 SVC, Adi Cakobau School 0-28 Naitasiri Warriors, Lami High 22-4 Dudley High.
