Hard work pays off for Malolo – FBC News
At the start of the season, Malolo set an ambitious goal, to reach the Skipper Cup final. But what began as a distant dream has now become a remarkable reality. Team Manager Semi Cabelotu admitted that the target initially seemed out of reach. Article continues after advertisement However, as the team gradually gained momentum and secured their place in the knockout stages, the possibility of reaching the final began to feel more attainable. Victories over powerhouse teams Nadi and Nadroga proved that Malolo has the talent and determination to compete among the best in the country according to Cabenalotu. “Our target when we started the season was to finish in the top eight, but we managed to reach the final. We had put a challenge to the boys where we said we wanted to reach the final. However, we all had faith these bunch of boys had what it takes to reach this far.” Cabelotu shared that there were moments when the team doubted whether their goal could be achieved, but through faith, discipline, and hard work, they have managed to defy expectations and make history. The Skipper Cup final will take place at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva at 3 p.m. on Saturday, and fans can catch the action live on FBC 2. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
From spectator to squad member – FBC News
Alivereti Nainoca [middle] [Source: Fiji Rugby/Facebook] For Alivereti Nainoca, training alongside some of Fiji’s biggest 7s names still feels like a dream come true. The young extended squad member says being part of the Fiji Airways Men’s 7s team has been both surreal and inspiring, as he adjusts to the fast pace and intensity of international sevens rugby. Nainoca has quickly settled into the environment under coach Osea Kolinisau, who has been impressed with how the new players are stepping up and blending with the rest of the squad. Article continues after advertisement “I’m so happy to have been considered to be part of the extended team. I used to watch these players and now get to train alongside them, it’s such a great feeling to be with the team I used to only watch on television.” Nainoca believes this opportunity is just the beginning of something bigger as he chases his long-term rugby dreams. “My dream is to not only reach here but go and play in other countries as well God willing. I’ve learnt so many things while playing 7s… it’s totally new for me because I’ve always played 15s so this is my first time trying out, but I have learnt quite a great deal since being part of the extended squad.” Coach Osea Kolinisau and his men will head to Tauranga, New Zealand later this week to compete in the Ignite 7s tournament which is a key warm-up before the final squad is named for the HSBC 7s Series opener in Dubai. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Nasilasila in Malolo’s Skipper Cup final squad – FBC News
[ Source: Sports Fiji / Facebook ] Former Fiji 7s rep Eminoni Nasilasila has been named as one of the 25 players up for selection for Tide Tribe Malolo ahead of their much-anticipated Skipper Cup grand final clash against Jacks Naitasiri this Saturday. If Nasilasila gets some game time, it’ll mark his return to competitive rugby after being released from prison last week. Malolo released their match-day squad this evening, while Naitasiri is expected to confirm its lineup tomorrow as a few players continue to recover from minor injuries. Article continues after advertisement Loose forward Imanueli Bari will captain Malolo, leading a determined outfit that has captured attention this season with its fearless style of play and unity on and off the field. The Malolo starting XV features Josevata Natoga at loosehead prop, Amasa Tamanigaunavou at hooker and Ratu Meli Kurisaru at tighthead prop. In the second row, Peniasi Ratu will partner Isaia Rugu, while skipper Bari and Vilikesa Kurubola take the flanks with Aminiasi Naituyaga completing the forward pack at number eight. In the backs, Simeli Karacia starts at halfback and links up with Viliame Nalolo at flyhalf. The midfield pairing includes Joseva Tamata at inside centre and Esala Nalobo at 13. Pita Kameli, nmTomasi Tawake and Douglas Daveta complete the lineup as theback three. On the bench are Jotame Baleisuva, Kitione Vosailagi, Ratu Wame Waqanaceva, Penaia Masikula, Semisi Lave, Tevita Ledua, Aporosa Tabulawaki, Nasilasila, Josaia Cokaibusa and Sikeli Ukauka. Malolo will be aiming to create history this weekend as they look to finish their breakthrough season on a high by lifting their first-ever Skipper Cup title against a battle-hardened Naitasiri side. They meet at 3pm at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. You can watch the LIVE action on FBC 2. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Bulikula welcomed in Sydney, Fiji based players arrive tomorrow – FBC News
[Source: FNRL/ Facebook] Family, friends and fans greeted and welcomed the Fiji Bulikula Sydney-based players today after their historic achievement in Canada on Monday. The side hammered Nigeria 62-4 to book their place in next year’s Rugby League World Cup for the first time. It’ll also be the first time the Bulikula and Fiji Bati play at the same World Cup. Article continues after advertisement Many fans wore the Fiji colors and waved their flags at Sydney Airport. Our Fiji-based Bulikula players and coaching staff will arrive at Nadi International Airport at 5am tomorrow morning. Meanwhile, the Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, congratulates the incredible Fiji Bulikula for making history.Saukuru acknowledges the Coalition Government, sponsors, and stakeholders for their unwavering support in making this journey possible, despite the many financial and logistical challenges faced along the way. The Minister says the Bulikula’s determination, teamwork, and ‘never say no’ attitude have made Fiji proud. He also says this historic achievement marks a new era for women’s rugby league in Fiji, inspiring young girls across the nation to dream big and believe that anything is possible through perseverance and passion. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Rewa to celebrate IDC victory this Saturday – FBC News
Rewa Football Club will celebrate its recent football success in style this Saturday, following their FMF IDC 2025 victory and back-to-back Extra Super League title win. The double celebration will be held in Nausori, with fans expected to paint the town red in support of the Delta Tigers. The event will begin at 10am with a gathering at Mistry Lane, followed by a street march through Nausori Town at 11am, and a formal celebration at Ratu Cakobau Park from midday. Article continues after advertisement Supporters are being encouraged to wear red and bring flags, drums and banners to join in the celebrations. Rewa FC president Nazeel Buksh says the event was to thank the players, officials and supporters who have stood behind the team throughout the season. He says winning both major titles this year was a proud moment for the district and a reflection of the team’s discipline and unity. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Indian trio arrive for boxing showdown in Suva – FBC News
Aarti Hoodha, Pawan Kumar and Rohit Three boxers from India, Aarti Hoodha, Pawan Kumar, and Rohit, have arrived in Fiji for the Stratum Construction Zeg Kings Boxing Promotion this Saturday. Twenty-six-year-old Pawan Kumar will face Australian boxer Andrew Maloney in the Super Bantamweight contest. Kumar comes from a boxing family as his grandfather is a coach with the Indian national boxing federation. Article continues after advertisement This will be his fourth international appearance after three losses abroad, but the Indian fighter remains confident, having won eight bouts at home, including six by knockout. For 23-year-old Rohit, the bout against Filise Nabua for the Welter Weight title contest will mark his first international fight. Rohit has had six professional fights, recording five wins and one loss, and says he is ready to make the most of the opportunity. Meanwhile, 25-year-old Aarti Hoodha will take on Laite Nanovi in the Lightweight division. Hoodha, who started boxing at the age of 14 in her village in India, said her father was the one who encouraged her to pursue the sport despite community restrictions on women in sports. The Promotion will be held at the Vodafone Arena in Suva. Fans can catch all the action live on FBC’s online platform www.viti.plus for $99 FJD. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Fiji’s top athletes set for 2025 Oceania Cup in Tonga – FBC News
[Source: Athletics Fiji/facebook] Five of Fiji’s top track and field athletes have been selected by Oceania Athletics to compete at the 2025 Oceania Cup, which begins tomorrow in Tonga. The team departed for Tonga earlier today and includes Errol Qaqa (Men’s 110m Hurdles), Samuela Vunivalu (Men’s Long Jump and Triple Jump), Maryann Macedru (Women’s Shot Put), Loata Lewageena (Women’s Javelin and Discus), and Sereana Viriviri (Women’s Long Jump and High Jump). Their selection follows standout performances at the recent Pacific Mini Games in Palau. Article continues after advertisement Meanwhile, sprinter Heleina Young was also named in the squad but will not compete due to medical reasons. The Oceania Cup runs from tomorrow to Saturday, bringing together the region’s best athletes in one of the key events on the 2025 athletics calendar. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Vusu Raiders look to make a statement in PNG – FBC News
[Source: FNRL/Facebook] The Vusu Raiders are bracing for a tough battle as they prepare to take on Mount Hagen in this weekend’s Melanesian Cup in Papua New Guinea. For many in the side, this trip marks their first time competing overseas, a moment filled with pride and emotion, but the players know that focus and discipline will be key when they step onto foreign soil. Vusu Raiders lock forward Emoni Nagauna says the team is ready to rise to the challenge and will channel their energy into delivering a strong performance. Article continues after advertisement “I’m really looking forward to this weekend’s game. I’m overwhelmed with happiness to be selected by our team management for this trip. I’ll make sure to go out there, show what I’m capable of, perform my duties to the best of my ability, and help bring the win home with my teammates.” He adds excitement is building within the camp as the Raiders call on fans back home for their support ahead of this historic outing. “The team officials and management have given us a lot of their support and resources to help us perform at our best. We never thought that one day we would fly out of the country, but now that we’ve been given this opportunity, we humbly ask for your support and prayers as we set out for this important mission.” The Raiders will feature in the curtain-raiser to the Pacific Championship clash between the Vodafone Fiji Bati and the PNG Kumuls, setting the tone for an action-packed Saturday in Port Moresby. You can watch the Bati versus Kumuls match live on FBC Sports this Saturday at 5pm. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Fiji to compete at Ignite 7s in New Zealand – FBC News
Fiji Men’s 7s extended side will be heading down to New Zealand later this week to compete at the Ignite 7s Tournament, as they prepare for the upcoming HSBC 7s series. Head coach Osea Kolinisau says this will be a good opportunity for him to test his players and use different combinations, before selecting his final squad for the first tournament of the series, the Dubai 7s. The side held a training session this afternoon at Albert Park in Suva, where they focused on fitness and skill sets. Article continues after advertisement “We got a few new boys here, so this tournament will be a good chance for them to prove themselves and earn their side in the team. We have been looking at footages of our games last year and have been discussing how we can rectify certain areas.” The side has been preparing together over the past few weeks, and are expected to leave for New Zealand at the end of the week. The Ignite 7s will be held on Saturday and Sunday. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Nadolo joins Fijian Drua coaching staff – FBC News
[ Source: Fiji Drua / Facebook ] Former Flying Fijians winger and Crusaders star Nemani Nadolo has joined the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua coaching staff as Development Coach. The Namatakula, Nadroga native brings a wealth of experience to the Drua, having represented the Flying Fijians in 30 Test matches and scoring 242 points. Nadolo’s illustrious playing career spanned some of the world’s top rugby competitions, including Super Rugby Pacific, where he made 39 appearances and scored 27 tries for the Crusaders. Article continues after advertisement He later featured for the Waratahs, adding another try from four matches. He remains the second-highest try scorer in Flying Fijians history with 21 tries — a record he shares with fellow Nadroga native Aisea Tuilevu. Nadolo also ranks fourth on Fiji’s all-time points list, behind Ben Volavola, Seremaia Bai, and Nicky Little. At 37, Nadolo’s new role will see him focus on developing individual player skills and working closely with the Drua coaching team to strengthen the club’s player development pathway. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.