RA captain Rusiate Ramotiqa has urged his teammates to take valuable lessons from their 28-20 defeat to Nadroga in the second round of the INKK Farebrother-Sullivan Trophy Challenge at Narauyaba Grounds yesterday.
Despite the eight-point loss, Ramotiqa remained positive, saying the team had gained important experience that would help them prepare for next year’s Skipper Cup campaign.
He thanked God for the strength given to the team throughout the tough encounter, describing it as a strong and competitive match.
“Thank God for the strength He has given us today. It was a good, strong game,” Ramotiqa said.
He said the team would continue to look to God despite the disappointment of losing, adding that the experience had provided valuable lessons for the players.
Ramotiqa said he continued to motivate his teammates throughout the match, reminding them to remain positive, keep fighting and never give up.
The Ra skipper said the players showed character by continuing to challenge Nadroga until the final whistle.
Ra made a promising start to the second half of the encounter but struggled to contain Nadroga’s powerful forward pack, which proved decisive in the Stallions’ victory.
Nadroga led 10-5 at halftime before extending their advantage through tries to winger Kelemedi Lagi, number eight Manasa Delevasa and prop Leveni Tokamato.
However, Ra refused to surrender, with Viliame Rokovucago scoring before prop Apenisa Waqawai crossed in the 77th minute.
Fullback Weresilo Fero added the conversion to bring Ra within striking distance, but Nadroga maintained their composure to secure the 28-20 victory.
Ramotiqa said the experience would serve as motivation for the Ra side as they look ahead to the 2027 Skipper Cup season.
