The Fiji Times

Vugakoto ready for his first start

- By VENINA RAKAUTOGA

FIJI Airways Flying Fijians hooker Ratu Veremalua Vugakoto was honoured to be given the chance to be named in the startling line-up of the second Pacific Nations Cup match against Canada today.

The 21-year-old said he was thankful for the opportunit­y to be playing in the starting line-up with his experience­d teammates.

“I want to thank God for giving me another opportunit­y to represent our country and have a start tomorrow for Fiji. I am looking forward to this and to get into that field with the rest of the players that I look up to,” said Vugakoto.

The Daviqele, Kadavu lad is also part of the Fijian Drua side that won the National Rugby Championsh­ip last year, he plays for the Naitasiri team in the Skipper Cup competitio­n and has also been part of the mighty Fiji Warriors side.

“I never dreamt of being part of the Flying Fijians extended squad so quickly just after coming in to the provincial level and being one of the youngest local players in this squad is a dream come true. I have learnt a lot on the way especially from these experience­d players in the team and it is a real honour to be camping and training alongside them,” said Vugakoto.

Experience­d props Campese Ma’afu and Peni Ravai will start in the front row with Ratu Veremalua Vugakoto.

 ?? Picture: RAMA ?? Ratu Veremalua Vugakoto talks to the press after captain’s run at Albert Park in Suva yesterday.
Picture: RAMA Ratu Veremalua Vugakoto talks to the press after captain’s run at Albert Park in Suva yesterday.

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