The New Zealand Fiji Rugby League (NZFRL) Under 17 team was in Fiji on September 17 to play in the Tagitupou Challenge. New Zealand.
The Tournament, named after former Fiji National Rugby League Chairman, the late Illaisa Tagitupo, was a Schoolboy Tournament involving teams from Fiji and Invitational teams from Australia and New Zealand.
This year, NZFRL was the only non-Fiji resident side to compete.
Despite losing both games, the Tournament was a huge success for the team.
Not only did the boys have to battle the heat and rugged grounds, they had to play against opposition almost two years their senior.
“The team played incredibly,” Team Coach Gilbert Underwood said.
“They competed right until the very end and never gave up. The heat also got the better of our boys, who for the majority of them have never played under those conditions.”
Sabeto Roosters were the winners, dominating both their pool games and the Grand Final against the Saru Dragons.
Outstanding players
Standout players from the NZFRL team included Indian play-maker 15 year old Mitlesh Gosai, Daniel Dave, Brayden Brown, Jairus Smith, Ian Cabealawa and Rupeni Bale.
As well as playing in the Tournament, the NZFRL team attended a dinner hosted by the New Zealand High Commission in Suva.
This was certainly a highlight of the trip for the team and officials, who were overwhelmed by the hospitality by their hosts, Trade Commissioner Peter Lund and Acting Head of Mission Phillip Taula.
Preparations have begun for the 2013 Battle of the Bati at which the NZ-Fijians will vie for World Cup positions up for grabs for the October event in the UK.
Steven Smith is the Chairman of the New Zealand Fiji Rugby League. He was also the Chairman of the independent panel of judges of the Indian Newslink Indian Sports Awards 2012. He can be contacted on 021-676651.
Email: smittyswv72@yahoo.co.nz
