Kenatale: Playing in empty stadium is new for us

Playing at grounds without spectators will be new for our players, says a former Flying Fijians and Suva halfback. On Tuesday, Aporosa Kenatale said the presence of fans always helped players’ lift their performance during games.

He made the comments after there were speculations that this year’s provincial rugby competition could be played behind closed doors because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kenatale, who represented Suva during the Skipper Cup Premiership and Farebrother Sullivan Trophy challenge matches, said the impact fans brought to a game was something he could describe as magical.

He highlighted that it could make a player do the impossible or go that extra mile in terms of performance.

“If there are no spectators, it will not make any sense to the players to showcase their talents,” he said.

“If it’s live on TV or other technologies than it should be okay, but will be for the players to adapt to the situation.

“The cheering of the fans boost the players’ performance on the field.”

Kenatale has urged players to keep up with their fitness.

“Follow every instruction and continue your own training at home,” he added.

Photo: Ronald Kumar. From left: Former national sevens team winger Isikeli Vuruna and former Flying Fijians halfback Aporosa Kenatale work on an outboard engine at Stanley Brown Naval Base in Walu Bay, Suva, on May 19, 2020.