Vusu Raiders fought hard against a determined USP Raiders side to win by 28-24 in their opening match during the 2023 Vodafone Cup Super 8 Premiership at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka yesterday.
“It was a tough game for us and I told the boys to step up in the second half,” said Vusu Raiders coach Isoa Bati. He said they knew USP Raiders would be a good team as they lost against them last year.
“I told the boys at half-time to just move the ball around as it would create opportunities for us. “Our big boys in the front played direct rugby towards the end and we managed to come up with a win.”
The Namatakula-Nadroga-based team hopes to win the overall competition this year after falling short last year, losing to eventual winners Nadera Panthers in the semi-finals.
“I told the boys to try hard to win the trophy this year.”
USP Raiders coach Asaeli Saravaki said quite a number of boys were new and they would adapt in the upcoming matches.
“It was a very tough match. We managed to fight back in the second-half and reduced the scoreline.
“There are some tough teams in the competition with the likes of Nadera Panthers, Saru Dragons, Police Sharks and Army Bears.”
Vusu Raiders (1-13) Napolioni Kalouvatu, Bavai Batibasaga, Peniasi Damu, Ifereimi Tovilevu, Aminiasi Savou, Peniasi Rea, Sikeli Votonisoga, Ereqe Batibasaga, Eremasi Batibasaga, Temesi Sovunivanua, Saimoni Peter, Kiniviliame Vasuikoro, Josese Yaya
USP Raiders (1-13) Jovilisi Nagatalevu, Iliesa Ulutego, Orosi Rauamalo, Amenatave Bakabaka, Atunaisa Rokovatu, Kelemedi Dralia, Wilisoni Tabuya, Serupepeli Dakai, Jason Tigarea, Temo Diloi, Jone Lasike, Joeli Rakai, Maikali Kilioni.
