“The supporters who came out in numbers gave us strength to keep pushing until the final whistle,” Ra captain Waisea Lawaibuka said after his side claimed a memorable 17-10 victory over Northland in the Vodafone Vanua Cup championship final yesterday. Ra capped off a remarkable campaign by lifting the title in front of a good crowd at Buckhurst Park, whose vocal support helped drive the team to victory.
The final was a physical contest, with both teams battling hard for possession and territory. Ra made the most of its opportunities to edge ahead before holding off a determined Northland outfit in the closing stages.
The captain credited the players for their commitment throughout the tournament and said the achievement was special for everyone involved with the team.
Lawaibuka extended his thanks to the supporters who attended in large numbers to back the team.
“Massive thank you to the supporters who turned up in numbers today. I was happy seeing the many people that came to cheer us on,” he said.
Meanwhile, Macuata and Yasawa celebrated title victories after producing impressive performances in their respective Vanua Cup finals yesterday.
Macuata claimed the under-20 title with a 30-10 win over Cakaudrove.
The final was closely contested early, with Macuata taking a 19-10 lead before capitalising on a Cakaudrove penalty to extend its advantage. A converted try later sealed the convincing victory.
Captain Sitiveni Raovu credited the players for their hard work and determination throughout the tournament.
“I would like to thank the boys for the hard work and effort they put in to secure this win,” he said.
Raovu acknowledged the challenges the team had faced, including receiving less support than the senior side, but said the players were grateful to have overcome those obstacles to lift the title.
In the Royal Tea Ranadi Cup final, Yasawa produced a dominant second-half display to defeat their opponents 43-15 after the teams were locked 10-10 at halftime.
Tight-head prop for the side Tulia Ragadi praised the team’s hard work and unity, saying their commitment had paid off.
“We are grateful to everyone who came out to support us. Their encouragement motivated us and played a big part in this victory,” she said.
