Nadroga Rugby manager Isikeli Basiyalo yesterday said while they think that the INKK Farebrother Sullivan challenge against holders Naitasiri will be held at Ratu Cakobau Park on Saturday nothing has been confirmed about the venue.

“We know that the ground (Ratu Cakobau) is water logged following the past few days of consistent rain; we just hope that the facility is safe for both players and spectators,” Basiyalo said.

Fiji Rugby Union operations manager and tournament director Jikoibau Matawalu was at a workshop in Nadi and could not be reached for comment yesterday.

“We are still trying to figure out where the venue will be, but the players are ready and are prepared accordingly,” Basiyalo said.

“The players are aware of their role throughout the preparation phase, and they will apply it in the field come game day.”

Basiyalo said none of their players was injured after their friendly match against the Vinod Patel Ba side two weeks ago.

Paid Ad

“Our team lineup for the Farebrother match against Naitasiri will be confirmed later this afternoon (yesterday),” he said.

“Naitasiri is a champion side, and we respect them.

“This is the last challenge and both camps know about it.”

Basiyalo said like any team going in to challenge a trophy, Nadroga is no different as they are hopeful for a positive result against Naitasiri.

“We will need to improve on our weaknesses as we have a crucial match ahead of us,” he said.

“The match against Ba was a friendly game. It was a build-up in our preparation for the Farebrother trophy challenge.

“We have a few tricks on our side, but we will do our talking on the field.

“The players are ready and eager take on their opponents on the field.”

Basiyalo had urged Nadroga fans to come together for the last time to support the Stallions.

Naitasiri had wrestled the Farebrother trophy from Lautoka last Saturday 27-21 at Churchill Park.

Lautoka had beaten holders Nadi 16-10 and beat Suva 21-19 before going down to Naitasiri last Saturday.

Feedback: ioane.asioli@fijisun.com.fj