Fiji Police Rugby League coach Sale Tubuna has stated that his team is currently “about 60 percent ready” as they ramp up preparations for the highly anticipated Sukuna Bowl rugby league matchup against Army scheduled for next Wednesday. With just a week remaining until the showdown, Tubuna acknowledges that although the squad is still finding its rhythm with a blend of new talent and seasoned players, their confidence remains robust as they aim to reclaim the title they last won three years ago.
After six weeks of training that has featured a mix of fresh faces from rugby union backgrounds, including those shifting from competitions like the Vanua Cup, Tubuna believes the integration has been both challenging and rewarding. He remarked on the importance of fresh ideas in their training regimen and the significance of this period in evaluating their progress. This blend of players includes seven newcomers from the West and two from the North, all uniting under the common goal of performing well on game day.
Earlier this year, Tubuna led the Police women’s team to victory in the FNRLW Championship, and now he is focusing on revitalizing the men’s squad. The strong support from families and the Fiji Police Force adds an additional layer of motivation as the team prepares to confront their rivals.
As the countdown continues, the Police team is committed to enhancing their training intensity in their final week ahead of the crucial match. The Sukuna Bowl kicks off next week, with the Police aiming to restore pride in their performance against the Defence Force. The match will take place at 1 PM at Bidesi Park in Laucala Bay, Suva.
In conjunction with the rugby league competition, other sports events, including soccer matches, are also part of the Sukuna Bowl festivities, broadcasting live for supporters who wish to follow the action from abroad. This excitement reflects the growing community spirit surrounding the event and the deep-rooted rivalry between the teams, promising not just competitive games but a celebration of sportsmanship and unity within the Fiji community.