The Village Boys rugby team is gearing up with determination as they approach the Wairiki 7s tournament, the second leg of the Fiji Bitter series scheduled to start tomorrow. Following a strong opening in the series, where they triumphed 15-12 against Kava Vacalea in Levuka, the team is eager to continue their winning streak.
Head coach Epeli Matata praised the team’s commitment and rigorous preparation over the past week. “The boys have been preparing well for the past week, and with a good start in Levuka, they are focused and ready for the task ahead,” Matata stated. He emphasized that skills training has been central to their practice sessions, aiming to improve both set pieces and ball play to enhance their overall performance on the field.
“The boys are doing great during training, concentrating on our set pieces and ball play throughout the week,” Matata added. He also acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, recognizing that the Wairiki 7s will be a tough competition with all teams coming prepared to compete for victory.
Although the team is dealing with the loss of two players due to injuries, they plan to maintain their momentum by fielding the same lineup as in the Yalovata 7s. “We have two injured players, but they will be replaced, and we are excited to feature the same team from the Yalovata 7s for this tournament,” Matata explained.
This tournament presents a valuable opportunity for younger players to gain experience alongside their more seasoned teammates and further develop their skills. “We have a young side, and it’s beneficial for these players to play with the more experienced ones, allowing them to learn and grow,” he mentioned.
Despite the challenges posed by financial constraints—where players have had to cover their own travel expenses and engage in fundraising—Matata acknowledged their resilience. “It has been tough for us, but we keep pushing through. These players love the sport, and they play from their heart,” he said. He expressed gratitude towards their supporters, particularly the families who have provided unwavering backing since the beginning.
The Wairiki 7s tournament will kick off tomorrow and is set to run through Saturday, promising an exciting weekend of rugby as teams vie for victory.