Special debut for Rova at home turf
JONE Rova’s Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific debut was special for him and his family as he got to do it at home.
Rova who hails from Vusaratu Village in Natewa, Cakaudrove came off the bench for the Crusaders in their 10-20 loss to the Drua in round three at Churchill Park in Lautoka on Saturday.
His father Maika Rova travelled from Auckland on Friday to watch his son play in the black and red jersey.
The 21-year-old said, to have his family watched him at home, was a memory he won’t forget.
“It’s really special since I heard my name being called out to play I messaged the family, they booked the ferries, flights and bus to come watch so it’s pretty special to debut in front of my family,” the Crusaders replacement centre said.
“It’s very special for me to have my family come watch me. It means a lot to play for this club but even more special to play in front of my family.”
His parents and his aunties cheered the loudest for him when he entered in the second half, replacing Levi Aumua.
“I came from New Zealand and his aunties are here from Suva, some came from Taveuni and his mum came all the way from Vusaratu in Natewa,” Jone’s father said.
“It was pretty exciting for us as a family.
“For him to play in Fiji in front of his family it was special for us as a family.
“We were pretty excited when we read his name on the match-day 23. Sometimes it can be hard when a team gets named and your boy is not there, but we understand that they’ve got a big group and the way the players compete for a place in the team is very tough, but he got his shot today (Saturday),” the proud father added.
Rova’s dad returned to Auckland yesterday.