Yasawa to work on forwards

TYasawa will meet Tailevu in the third round of the ANZ Marama Championship.

he Yasawa women are working on their forwards while preparing for their match against Tailevu at Nakelo District School grounds this Saturday.

This was the comment of head coach Taione Ratu.

Yasawa lost to Suva, 22-14, last Saturday in the third round of the ANZ Marama Championship.

Ratu said their forwards were quite light compared to the capital city women’s side.

“We need to improve on our forwards play,” he said yesterday.

“The other thing we need to work on is our discipline; we gave away too many penalties last week and we hope to minimise that; we need to reduce our infringement on the rucks also. “Tailevu has a good kicker and also a heavy forward pack so we have to pull up our socks and match that.”

Yasawa thrashed Naitasiri, 56-26, in their opener.

Ratu indicated they have been debuting players every week which shows the depth and interest of young women in the sport. There were 12 debutants in the first match, 10 in the second and six against Suva last week.

“We have gained a lot of support for our women’s team this year, which is positive,” he said.

“Most of these women are school leavers, many were in the system but never played – they have been given chances at every match.

“I’m certain that another group of girls will debut against Tailevu this Saturday.”

Despite the financial difficulties, Yasawa always find ways to make ends meet to travel for their matches through various fundraising drives including kava barrels and soli. Transportation cost for a return trip to Suva had cost them $2000.

“The trip to Nakelo will cost a little bit more but we are looking forward to it; we know that Tailevu will give us a good game.”

Ratu is grateful that some members of his side have earned their spot at the national women’s High Performance Unit and he is certain that a few more will follow.