Naitasiri’s progress impresses Tinaviti
The Naitasiri mentor was also pleased with the opportunity to test several players in different positions as the competition progresses.
Monday 10 August 2026 | 09:30
Naitasiri after defeating Kadavu with a 43-17 win at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori, last Saturday
Photo: Josua Buredua
Naitasiri head coach Timoci Tinaviti is happy with his player's progress.
He revealed this during an interview with SUNsports following their 43-17 win over Kadavu in the second round of the Skipper Cup clash at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori, last Saturday.
The Highlanders led 21-12 at halftime before turning up the pressure in the second half to secure a convincing win.
Tinaviti said the team worked hard during the week to address areas that needed improvement, particularly their scrums and lineouts.
“I thank everyone for giving us the opportunity to play this game.
Coming into this game, we knew it was not going to be easy,” he said.
“Last week, we identified our weaknesses and worked on our scrums and lineouts. Those were the areas we wanted to improve on.”
The Naitasiri mentor was also pleased with the opportunity to test several players in different positions as the competition progresses.
“We changed several players from last week and today we brought in four new players. We are blessed with the squad we have, and we are continuing to build the team,” he said.
Tinaviti said the inclusion of experienced players had also helped the side improve their overall performance.
“It is a good team. We are testing ourselves, especially on our set-piece and general play, and that is important for us as we move forward in the Skipper Cup.”
Although Naitasiri had a nine-point advantage at the break, Tinaviti said the players were reminded at halftime to be more direct and make better use of their possession.
“In the second half, we really learnt our lesson. In the changing room, I told the boys that whenever we get the ball, we have to take it towards them and keep moving forward,” he said.
Tinaviti also acknowledged the strong support from spectators who turned up in numbers.
“I thank the supporters of Naitasiri and everyone who came in numbers today to cheer for us,” he said.
“Thank you very much to our sponsors and all our supporters from Naitasiri and overseas.
We really appreciate your support and hopefully we can get the same numbers of supporters next week.”
Naitasiri travels to Churchill Park in the third round to face Lautoka on Saturday.
