Cook Islands out of World Cup run

Cook Islands Moana are out of the contest for a world cup spot.

This was after their 6-18 loss to the Fiji Bulikula at the HFC Bank Stadium last Saturday.

Head coach Rusty Matua told SUNsports that the Fijian side outclassed them in attack and defense.

“We weren’t good enough and congratulations to the Bulikula who were lot stronger and were went able to stop the flow of their momentum,” he said.

“The girls definitely showed some effort but unfortunately our skills was not up to par.”

Matua said they were ambushed by the Bulikula team despite a good build-up to their Pacific Championship campaign.

“Fiji showed up and taught us how to play footy especially with regard to how they dominated the ruck,” he said.

Captain Kiana Takairangi said she was glad to see many of their supporters in the crowd despite their loss to the Fiji Bulikula side.

“I got around to a couple of our players and said sorry I feel like I let my team down,” she said.

“It’s a disappointing loss for our team and our nation; we don’t know if we get another chance so we’ll wait and see what happens.”

Takairangi said it was an honour for her to captain the Cook Islands Moana side alongside her brother Brad Takairangi who captained the Cook Islands Aitu men’s team.

“We’re really proud Cook Islanders and being able to do it at the same time here in Fiji is really special,” she said.

Coach Matua acknowledged the Fijian people for their hospitality and for being good hosts.

“We’re thankful to the NRL (National Rugby League) for creating this competition as its been both an honour and privilege for all of us to represent our heritage and Pacific culture,” he said.

“And to share with our Pacific cousins as well so a big thank you to the people of Fiji and NRL as well.”

Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj