THE USP Raiders side delivered a composed and clinical performance to overpower the Veiyasana Knights 24-4 in round three of the Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Fiji Cup at Buckhurst Ground on Saturday, laying down another strong marker in the women’s competition.
The Raiders controlled the contest from the outset, winning the territorial battle through disciplined set completions and aggressive carries. Their structured attack stretched the Knights defensive line, while quick play-the-balls and effective ball movement created opportunities out wide.
The 24-point victory keeps the Raiders campaign firmly on track as they continue building combinations and confidence heading into the latter stages of the competition.
Despite the convincing scoreline, team manager Patimosi Lewaya believes the performance highlighted areas that still require attention if the side is to challenge the competition’s strongest teams.
Lewaya said the players successfully implemented the structures developed during training, with their attacking shape and commitment to the game plan evident throughout the match.
However, he admitted improvements are needed around the middle of the field, particularly in defence.
“I think their defence, they need to focus more on their defence, and some of the key areas, such as the play-the-ball and the markers.”
With tougher fixtures looming, including clashes against the Lami Steelers and Police, Lewaya said the coaching staff would thoroughly review the performance before the squad returned to training.
“I think they take notes on the problem and some of the issues that they saw this morning, and they’re going to regroup again for next week’s game.”
Confident the team is heading in the right direction, Lewaya backed the Raisers to continue their winning run if they remain committed to the systems put in place by the coaching staff.
“I’m 100 per cent sure that they will manage to execute what they have learnt. They just must abide by the structure that the coach wants them to play.”
As the USP Raiders prepare for the next challenge, they will look to tighten their defensive line, improve their work around the play-the-ball and build on the attacking execution that proved the difference in their latest outing.
