Macuata to build-up for Skipper opener
Despite going down18-39, Macuata took the game to the Stallions where they twice took the lead and was within striking distance 18-25 in the last quarter before fitness caught up with them.
Tuesday 05 August 2025 | 00:00
Action between Macuata vs Nadroga at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka.
Photo: Ronald Kumar
The adage that ‘Rome was not built in a day’ runs true for the Macuata rugby team.
Newly appointed coach Osea Umuumulovo had just started, worked with the squad five weeks before they took on Cambridge Farms Nadroga in their Skipper Cup opener last Saturday.
Despite going down18-39, Macuata took the game to the Stallions where they twice took the lead and was within striking distance 18-25 in the last quarter before fitness caught up with them.
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Speaking to SUNsports, Umuumulovo highlighted the importance of playing quality pre-season matches.
“For us it was like going down when we has pre-season matches against teams that were playing in the (Vodafone) Vanua Championship.”
He indicated that it was their first game and they are focused on Friday night’s game against hosts Nadi at Prince Charles Park.
Playing well for Macuata was tireless lock forward Paula Bukavece, second five-eighth Viliame Maiono along with wingers Epeli Rakosakosa and Akariva Vura.
