Maroons eye top 8

THE Lautoka Rugby Union (LRU) is setting its sights on securing a spot in the top eight positions in the upcoming 2024 Skipper Cup competition.

According to Setariki Rakoto, the Secretary of LRU, the team is committed to implementing proper strategies in their preparations leading up to game day, with the goal of maintaining their position in the top 8.

“We believe in the boys, and we are determined to achieve our goal. Our main priority now is our training, diet and strength and conditioning of the boys. Our main aim now is to do our preparation which is align with Skipper cup preparation,” Rakoto said.

Lautoka and Ba are the two qualified unions that were promoted following their success in the Vanua Championships last year.

Rakoto emphasized the importance of maintaining their status in the Skipper Cup this year.

“We want to maintain our status in the Skipper Cup this year,” Rakoto added.

The extended squad of LRU has been in training since January 2, with the core of the team being composed of players from the Vanua Cup core squad of the previous season.

Rakoto expressed confidence in the grassroots performances, citing the success of Natabua High School and Ba Provincial in Secondary School rugby. He believes that their U20 grade is on the right pathway for the challenges ahead.

“We have the facilities available, and we can’t afford to go down again next season.”

Despite facing numerous challenges last year, including a lack of sponsorship leading to the senior teams wearing rip jerseys instead of the U20 jerseys, the players remained dedicated to representing their Vanua.

Their perseverance paid off, earning them a spot in the Skipper Cup competition this season.

Going in this season the sugar city side will go in as underdogs.

“Skipper cup is different level we will go in as underdogs in all our games,” he added.