Kulas finding their rhythm

DIGICEL Fiji Kulas head coach Angeline Chua is optimistic about her team’s performance in the upcoming OFC Olympic qualifiers in Samoa next month.

The team has undergone thorough preparation in Ba, focusing on key areas for improvement.

“I’m happy with the girls’ performance during training and their attitude in camp; they have been doing well on and off the field which makes me happy.

“They were able to adapt to the game structures which I teach them and most of these girls have been playing the full season last year in the under-16, under-19 and senior teams so they are aware of everything that is expected of them,” Chua said.

Last week, Luisa Tamani was nursing a minor injury and undergoing rehabilitation. However, coach Chua confirmed that the former national captain has been medically cleared and played in their recent friendly match.

“Tamani is cleared and I’m glad that she received the best medical treatment and has recovered well and played in the friendly match,” Chua added.

Three new players – Seruwaia Vasutoga, Koleta Maranitavuto, and Adi Anasimeci Manutawake – have joined the team this season after playing in club competitions in Australia last season.

“We are glad that the three players have joined us and will boost our campaign,” the coach explained.

Overseas-based Priya Singh will join camp on Wednesday.

“This week will be our final week in preparation before we fly out to Samoa on February 5.”

Currently, an extended squad of 26 players is in camp, with 23 players to be selected for the Samoa tour and three designated as nontravelling reserves.

The qualifiers will be held on February 7-19, and will see eight teams competing across two groups, with the winning side representing the Oceania region at the Summer Olympic Games 2024 in Paris.

Fiji is in Group A with Group A and will compete against Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and American Samoa, whilst Group B includes New Zealand, Tonga, Samoa and Vanuatu.