Nasinu ready for title defence

THE Nasinu Secondary School Panthers under-19 side will be out to maintain its title as defending champion of the Vodafone Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby League (FSSRL) competition when the new season kicks off tomorrow.

While on a break from school for the launch of the 2022 Vodafone Trophy, Panthers captain Lorosio Civoniceva said the team understood the importance of the task at hand.

“Right now our main focus is to keep our title,” the 18-year-old shared.

The Wailevu, Cakaudrove lad said the side was excited for the competition after a long break from the sport since last year.

“Competition this year will be difficult because all the other schools will be challenging us for the title. So we will be treating all of our games like finals,” he said.

He thanked the competition sponsors for their never-ending partnership with FSSRL. He said they would be out to give their all and wished the other schools the best.

“We know that the other schools will be looking for upsets, so we need to focus and keep our head in the game.”

The school is also the title holder in the under-15 grade.

Nasinu Panthers defeated Queen Victoria Knights last year and hold the Tanoa Shield with the Eastern and National Cup.

Nasinu under-19 coach Mika Yasiyasi says they expect tough competition from rival schools.

“The team who prepares well will be the team who will walk away with a win,” he said. “For us here at Nasinu, preparation is the key for success.” The Panthers have already started their training and face the Knights tomorrow.

... so we need to focus and eep our head in the ame Lorosio Civoniceva