Quarters next for Macuata U20
High school students travel with schoolbooks during Skipper Cup comp.
The Macuata Under-20 rugby team has shifted their focus to the Skipper Cup quarterfinals.
While they still have two more matches to play against Yasawa and Tailevu, coach Anasa
Molisodrau said their 24-17 against Fiji Pine Ba Juniors last Saturday has secured them a spot in the top eight.
Macuata was seventh on the U20 points table after six rounds with nine points.
The young Babasiga side has secured three wins so far after seven rounds.
Molisodrau said while there were challenges faced, they are glad to have secured their spot.
“We came for a win and for us to go to the quarterfinal,” he said. “This sets us in the top eight which was our goal. “We are trying to get all the boys together, there were a few high school students in the squad. “That was an obstacle (at first), but they have managed well to get into our structure. Things are on track now moving to the play-offs. “We will be working on our scrums, there are a lot of young boys but that’s not an excuse if we want to play rugby. We will get up and play rugby.”
There are nine high school students in their 30-member squad who would travel with their books when they are playing away games. “These students gave their all.
They did just what they’re required to do, so hats off to the boys,” Molisodrau said.
“They usually bring their books and have been balancing studies and rugby well.
“They are students from Labasa College, Labasa Sangam (SKM) College, Guru Nanak College and Batinikama College and playing at this level is a good exposure for them.”
Macuata will be hosted by Yasawa at Churchill Park, Lautoka, this Saturday.