They came, they saw, and they conquered in style. That was how the Police Sharks team attacked the final of the Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Cup women’s premiership at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka on Saturday.
Led by captain and forward Laisa Takayawa, the women from Nasova beat Lami Steelers 32-16 to be crowned women’s rugby league champions in Fiji.
The match lived up to its billings with 11 tries scored – the women in blue racing to a 16-6 lead at the break.
Police scrum half Vasemaca Radinibukelevu was on hand to score a double in the team’s eight-try rout after marshalling attacks well for her team.
Lami Steelers put up a good fight but the bounce of the ball did not go their way. Takayawa congratulated her girls for the win and also commended their opponents for putting up a good fight.
“They (Lami Steelers) stayed in the game until the final whistle,” she said.
“During the game I had to encourage the girls for us to take the trophy back to Nasova because this is the first time for us to take part in the league.
“We are the pioneers of the Police Sharks and we have created history by taking back the trophy to Nasova.”
She said they dedicated the win to all women officers working at police stations around the country and to the players’ families for allowing the girls time to play the sport.
“I just want to thank the Almighty God for the win he gave us today. I want to thank our manager Sergeant Mele and Corporal Leni, our coach Epeli Soro and team management for the precious support shown towards the girls.”
Teams:
- Police Sharks – Diranuve Drodrolagi, Makelesi Moli, Salote Botei, Sainiana Lalagavesi, Kelera Saucoko, Selai Raraki, Radinibukelevu, Takayawa, Adi Kakua Kereiwasa, Vilet Brown, Daiana Waqavakatoga, Tulia Rokobeta, Alisi Naigeti, Georgina Carol, Alisi Lalabalavu, Verenaisi Adi Qilisoi, Taraivosa Tagivetaua. Coach: Epeli Soro.
- Lami Steelers – Mereseini Naidau, Miriama Hawea, Salote Moceituba, Paulini Lewatai, Elenoa Dianilawe, AsenacaVesinawailagi, Litia Kereburogo, Salome Vonodra, Paulini Rose, Cannon Sorby, Salanieta Nai, Vasema Ralaca, Sokoveti Mokubula, Edwina Bogidua, Sainimere Saumaki, Sainimili Tokatokavanua, Sisilia Mereia, Miliana Liku. Coach: William Dansey.
