“WHEN the Nabua boys and the Raiwaqa boys play, it’s like two coconuts clashing,” says Nabua Maroons head coach Koroi Matadigo, after their 23-15 win against DHL Raiwaqa in the FMF Suva Rugby Union Escort Shield competition yesterday.
The round 10 match at Albert Park brought out a fierce rivalry that has lasted generations, but Matadigo believes these big games bring out the best in the players.
“It was really a hard-fought win, but it’s a good thing. Games like this always bring out the best versions of the rugby players, especially when they are put on this platform,” he said.
With the competition nearing its business end, Matadigo shared that the first goal for Nabua this season was simple, secure a spot in the Escort Shield quarter-finals.
“First we had to win against Raiwaqa, and that’s what we did,” he said.
Matadigo praised his players for improving on areas that cost them in previous matches.
“One of the mistakes last week was being late to the breakdown. Today they were aggressive in that department,” he said.
However, injuries remain a challenge for the Maroons.
“Some of our seasoned players are laid off, and others have gone for work.”
He highlighted the shift in team culture this year, moving away from strict seniority towards giving opportunities to younger players who have the discipline and character to play at the top level.
“Our youngest player is 16 years old, playing in the premier team. Before, we had a seniority system, but now anyone can play if they have the skills,” Matadigo said.
Nabua Rugby Club, formed in the late 1970s from the Mataveitokani Methodist Church, is one of Suva Rugby’s oldest teams and has produced stars like Waisale Serevi.
Matadigo said playing against traditional clubs like Raiwaqa and Lomaiviti is always a contest, but one built on mutual respect.
“There were no fights. We just bring it to rugby, and outside the field, we are brothers,” he said.
