Axed 7s rep vows to keep on working hard
After being dropped from the Fiji Airways Fijian 7s training squad, Beniamino Vota is positive of putting on a good performance for Tabadamu at the MacDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s tournament at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka this weekend.
Vota told SUNsports yesterday that it’s a matter of putting on a positive mindset.
The hard hitting forward made the national 7s team to Dubai and Cape Town in South Africa. He copped a two-match suspension in Dubai after he was cited for a dangerous tackle.
But he returned to play and helped the Kalione Nasoko captained- side win the Cape Town tournament.
The return of Josua Vakurinabili and Paula Dranisinukula from injuries saw Vota being relegated.
The Tabadamu side are currently ranked the country’s best 7s team after winning the Raka tournament followed by clinching their own tournament in Nausori last weekend. my club as we’re all looking forward to the competition ahead of us in the Coral Coast 7s. “Also, I’m happy with how the club have come this far especially with the previous competitions which we’ve been winning which I’m very proud of.” Tabadamu 7s coach/manager Leo Naikasau said preparations are on track as they travel to Sigatoka tomorrow morning.
“Our preparation has always been normal for any tournament we compete in. After winning our tournament the boys took a few days break from training but now they’re gearing up for the Coral Coast 7s.
“They are aware of what is expected of them and that is to continue with their winning run.
“I’m aware the level of competition at the Coral Coast 7s will be tough but the players are reminded to lift their performance if we are to achieve our goal.
“Previously, we haven’t won the Coral Coast 7s title and this time we are hopeful that we can make it happen. With the guidance of our Almighty God anything is possible.” Tabadamu will play without their star players Apenisa Cakaubalavu and Terio Tamani who are members of the national 7s team. At the MacDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s they are in Pool B with Hong Kong, Sigatoka River Safari Henibua and Lokalevu.
The defending champions are Police as they are led by Livai Ikanikoda along with Kitione Taliga.
The Blues are in Pool A with First Light Taveuni, BLK and the Dratabu side be led by Olympian Samisoni Viriviri and playmaker Sevuloni Lutu.