The Fiji National Rugby League aims to improve the standard of refereeing and management in the 2015 Vodafone Cup competition, says a senior official. Speaking during the Vodafone Cup launch

by anasilini ratuva, suva

Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Cup Top Eight team launched the Top Eight Kits for 2015 at the Novotel Lami yesterday. From the left: Nabua Broncos Vili Rauluni, Nadera Panthers Jone Naitini, Saru Dragons Epeli Soro, Makoi Bulldogs Eliki Ledua, Burenitu Cowboys Nacanieli Kubu, Kinoya Sea Eagles Richard Fiu, Nadi Eels Waseroma Turaga, and Sabeto Roosters Peniasi Wakawaka. Photo: Jona Konataci

The Fiji National Rugby League aims to improve the standard of refereeing and management in the 2015 Vodafone Cup competition, says a senior official.

Speaking during the Vodafone Cup launch at the Novotel Suva Lami Bay conference centre, interim general manager Albert Sanday said these were some of the weaknesses they had identified from last year’s competition.

“We want to improve on them,” the former World Rugby recognised referee said.

“We want to apologise to the clubs for some ups and downs we had last year and we have learnt from it and will try to improve on these weak areas the year.

“We want to add value to our management issues and also to our officials. This is FNRL’s contribution to try and add value to the games this year.”

Vodafone Fiji chief marketing officer, Sanjeewa Perera said they are proud to be associated with the sport since 2006.

“Vodafone Fiji is proud to be at the forefront to facilitate and support the growth of rugby league in the country since our affiliation with FNRL in 2006.

“On the domestic level we have seen the growth from 10 clubs in 2006 to 57 clubs in eight zones now partaking in the sport, this on its own is an achievement for Vodafone, FNRL, players and fans of rugby league around the country,” Perera said.

“Our passion and dedication towards uplifting the sport from grass root up which was witnessed during the Vodafone Trophy where for the first time teams participating in the finals were provided with full playing apparels.”

He also praised the performance of the victorious Vodafone Fijian Bati team who walloped PNG Kumuls 22-10 in Gold Coast last Saturday night.

“Through our commitment and partnership we have uplifted the profile of the sport not only at grass root level as a growing domestic sport but also on the international arena,” he added.

The Top 8 teams include newcomers Pacific Energy Kinoya Sea Eagles, Classic Buses Nadi Eels, Fair Trade Makoi Bulldogs, Dee Cees Nadera Panthers, Pack Leader Nabua Broncos, Sabeto Roosters, Burenitu Cowboys and defending champions KBL Saru Dragons.

Lone Ra team, Burenitu Cowboys head coach Joseva Nayacatabu said they would try to better their performance from last year.

The side consisted of former Vodafone national 7s reps Neumi Nanuku and Vereniki Waqa who are expected to lift their performance in their opening clash against Broncos on Saturday.

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