Finau Backs USP to Build on Winning Start, Urges Improvement

USP Rugby League has made a perfect start to the Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Cup, securing back-to-back victories. Despite the winning streak, long-time supporter and player parent Tommy Finau insists the team must sharpen key areas to remain competitive.

Finau identified defensive execution and ball security as major focuses for the upcoming matches. "Our tackling and our ball retention need to improve. We missed a few tackles and dropped too many balls," he stated. He emphasized that these are critical areas for a team aspiring to compete at the highest level.

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Our tackling and our ball retention need to improve. We missed a few tackles and dropped too many balls. For a team that wants to compete at the top level, those are areas we have to work on every week as the competition progresses.

Finau also expressed pride in his son, Malakai Cama, who returned to Fiji to play for USP after a stint with the Auckland Wardens Under-18 side. He noted the rewarding experience of seeing his son continue his rugby league journey locally under the guidance of USP's coaching staff. "It’s a privilege to have him back playing locally while studying at USP. He’s getting good coaching and it’s great to see him representing the club," Finau said.

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It’s a privilege to have him back playing locally while studying at USP. He’s getting good coaching and it’s great to see him representing the club.

Looking at the broader competition, Finau anticipates increased intensity as more contenders emerge. He expects tough challenges from teams like the Nadera Panthers, Ratu Filise, and Nabua Broncos. Finau also urged the Fiji National Rugby League to invest more in the local club competition, highlighting the significant potential for growth, particularly in the women's game. "The women’s competition is exciting to watch. The players are enthusiastic every Saturday and there’s so much potential there if it’s supported," he added.

USP's players have benefited from a productive off-season, including friendly matches, which have prepared them for the current Vodafone Cup campaign. Round three of the competition is scheduled to continue this weekend.

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The women’s competition is exciting to watch. The players are enthusiastic every Saturday and there’s so much potential there if it’s supported.