The Nabua Topline Warriors under-15 rugby league team secured a hard-fought 12-10 victory against the Nadera Panthers at Buckhurst Park in Suva yesterday in round four of the Vodafone Cup U15 division competition.
It was a closely contested match, with both teams scoring two tries each, but Nabua’s accuracy with conversions proved decisive.
Early in the second half, Nadera scored their second try to take the lead 10-6. However, Nabua kept their composure and responded with a well-worked team try five minutes before the final whistle to clinch the win.
The team is made up of children from the Nabua Topline community.
Joji Korocawiri, who coaches the junior teams at the Topline Warriors rugby league club, said the victory was well deserved for the young team.
“It was a really great performance by the team who have been training so hard and have been so eager to play in this competition,” Korocawiri said.
“This is something really big for them to come out here and represent their community, and I thank the parents for supporting the team and allowing their children to be part of the team.”
Team captain George Vakarise said their hard work during the week had paid off.
“We finally showed the USP Raiders what we have been working on throughout the week, and we thank them for a great game,” he shared.
As they prepare for their next match, Vakarise highlighted the improvements the team needs to make before their next challenge.
“We need to be humble and more disciplined on the field, listen to the coaches, and stop using vulgar language when we play,” he said.
