Opportunity for upcoming prospects in Naitasiri squad

The well management of Naitasiri squad last seasoned got them through to the 2020 Skipper grand finale against Suva but fell short 16 – 13 when pressure on field ignited indiscipline from the Highlanders.

 

The highlanders coaching staff were clinical in managing their squad throughout the season (2020) looking at the fact at how they effectually preside over their 53 total players in the squad.

 

It was quite an experience for the team as coach Ilaitia Tuisese made sure that all players had enough but not excessive game time throughout the season, which will give them good exposure without getting the players fatigue.

 

“Last year 2020 was such a wonderful experience for us. Having used a total of 53 players altogether throughout the season, right up to the final which was a touch and go,” said Dr. Tuisese.

 

Tuisese added the final against Suva could’ve gone either way but indiscipline caused them the game.

 

Tuisese emphasized that the team are all eager to make amends for that in this year’s comp and use it as a springboard to push the Highlanders further this years.

 

“Like I always say, no team prepares to lose so it is always a challenge for the coaches to keep things into line and keep the momentum going throughout the season,” he said.

 

 

“With that being said, we are so much looking forward to launch our season against Northland this Sat and it should be a cracker of a game,” said Tuisese.

 

“Our off-season was good, but we still had to face a lot of challenges considering the logistics headache we had to put up with, as there are players who had to do a bit of travel to attend training,” he added.

 

After a successful outing, few of Naitasiri players last year have progressed straight to the Major League Rugby in USA with the likes of Tauyavuca, Dikidikilati, and Tawake while Karawalevu made his way to the NRL.

 

Tuisese added that Naitasiri had a good depth squad going from last year and fans should expect few new faces to make it into the team this year.

 

“ 3 other players have joined Northland and one to Suva this season so it gives an opportunity for others to have a crack at our first XV though, especially those coming through our system,” said Tuisese.

 

Naitasiri will play their Skipper Cup opener against old rival Northland this Saturday at Gatward park, Korovou.

 

Under 19 game will kick off at 11am, the development team will play at 1 pm while the main game is scheduled at 3pm.