We will be back stronger: Tinaviti

Despite Naitasiri’s Skipper Cup final loss, head coach Timoci Tinaviti remains positive about the team’s future. 

He said their, 41-26, loss against Tide Tribe Malolo was disappointing, but it hasn’t hurt the team’s spirit or their focus on what’s ahead.

“Saturday’s game was one we came to win, but mistakes, particularly in discipline, caught the boys throughout the match,” said Tinaviti said. 

“These are areas we are actively working on and will address in our training sessions. We played to the best of our abilities, and I told the boys to leave the loss behind. It’s already part of our history and now we turn our focus to what’s ahead.”

Malolo created history after winning its first Skipper Cup title after bring promoted from last year’s Vanua Championship. 

Looking ahead to the new season, Tinaviti said the team is committed to coming back stronger. 

“We are still defending the Farebrother, and this loss will serve as a lesson for the team. 

“Many of our players are young, under the age of 19, which means we are working with a long-term plan in mind. This is about preparing for the future, particularly for the Skipper Cup 2026. We have a five-year plan, and every game, win or lose, contributes to that vision.”

He acknowledged Malolo’s strong performance, especially in the second half. 

“We congratulate Malolo for giving us a good game. They came stronger in the second half, and that is something we take note of. For us, discipline remains a key focus, and by next year, we aim to improve significantly in that area.”

Tinaviti praised his players for their resilience and positive attitude. 

“The boys are putting their heads up, and they know that losing a game is part of the sport. Some games we win, some we lose, but the important thing is to learn from each experience and move forward.”

He also thanked the Naitasiri fans and supporters for their unwavering support. 

“The vanua has been behind us throughout, and although we didn’t achieve the result we wanted, their encouragement has been amazing. We’ve seen plenty of comments on social media, and that support continues to inspire us. We hope the fans will continue to back us next year as we work hard to return stronger,” Tinaviti added. 

Meanwhile, Naitasiri duo Kaveni Roseru and Sakaraia Soqonakalou have been called into the Fiji sevens extended squad by head coach Osea Kolinisau.