The Northland Rugby side has spent the week building more than just combinations on the field as they prepare for their 2026 Vanua Cup Championship elimination clash against Ra Rugby tomorrow.
Team manager Veremo Muria said the players entered camp at Nailega Village, Tailevu on Monday, with the focus centred on discipline, trust and strengthening team culture ahead of the do-or-die match.
“For us, preparation is not only about what happens on the rugby field, but also about building trust, discipline and brotherhood off the field. We believe strong team culture creates strong performances,” Muria said.
Muria said the players had spent the week bonding together while sharpening combinations and understanding the responsibility of representing Northland Rugby Union.
The management and coaching staff have focused heavily on fitness, recovery, discipline and building strong connections between experienced players and emerging young talent within the squad.
“We are making sure the players are physically prepared, mentally focused and clear about their individual roles within the team structure,” he said.
Northland heads into the clash with a major boost after confirming the squad is injury free.
Muria acknowledged the work done behind the scenes by management to ensure player clearances and availability were finalised early, allowing the squad to focus entirely on rugby preparations.
Despite facing a difficult challenge against a strong Ra side on home soil, Muria said the team was embracing the occasion.
“Ra is always a difficult team to play against, especially at home. They have a strong rugby culture, experienced players and they understand the conditions well,” he said.
The match kicks off at 3pm on Saturday at Narauyaba Sports Ground in Ra.
