Star in the making
A NEW Fijian talent is set to shine in the upcoming clash between the Newcastle Knights and the Melbourne Storm in their second round of the NRL trial match at Churchill Park tomorrow.
Viseisei villager Laitia Moceidreke has received the nod to don the Knights jumper, starting on the wing in a crucial role to bolster the team’s finishing.
Having been part of the development camp for the Knights, Moceidreke considers this opportunity as a significant milestone in his budding career.
Despite being born and bred in Sydney, Moceidreke expresses his excitement at being back home in Fiji for the game.
“Feels good to be back home.
“I will treat this game just like any other normal game and will try not to put pressure on my shoulder,” Moceidreke said.
Acknowledging the unique challenge of playing in front of the fervent Fijian fans, Moceidreke anticipates the loud cheers and support, especially from his family.
“My challenge will be trying to block out the noise from the fans probably my family will be the loudest in the crowd,” he added.
Moceidreke has maternal links to Malake in Ra and he has bought 30 tickets for both his paternal and maternal family to watch him in action.
“I know my families will be there screaming and shouting loud and proud,” he excitedly said. “My family in Australia are excited to see me play in Fiji.”
Knights head coach Adam O’Brien believes Moceidreke is a good prospect for the Knights. “He’s done a really good job over the summer, he will play 40 minutes in the wing for us and it will be good for everyone over here, there will be a big crowd coming to watch him, he’s an exciting talent,” he said.
O’Brien loves the Fijian hospitality so far.
“Our time has been great so far, everyone has been very welcoming, we had good weight session in the Drua gym and the school ground has been good,” he said.