Former Fiji Under-20 and Perpignan lock Taniela Ramasibana will make his debut for Lautoka when they take on Tailevu in tomorrow’s Skipper Cup clash in Nausori.

This was confirmed yesterday by Lautoka head coach Peniona Ranitu as the Maroons eye a spot in the top eight of the Skipper Cup competition.

They will be hosted at Ratu Cakobau Park, which will be an advantage for the green and yellow side, says Ranitu.

The Maroons will miss the services of Fijian Drua’s Sikeli Rabitu, who has been playing for the Maroons in the last few rounds.

The 19-year-old starts tonight as the Drua’s No.10 against the Hurricanes in their Super Rugby clash.

However, Ranitu said they’re banking on other players to take them forward.

“Tailevu is on a high right now after they beat Nadi last week. We need some points to stay at the top eight.

“It is an away game so it’s going to be tough; Tailevu will have the advantage of the home crowd,” Ranitu added.

“Ramasibana will play for the first time this Saturday and hope it will boost our side. He is a cover for the Drua and he needs some game time.

“Even though we will miss Rabitu, we have other players that will step-up and we wish him well for the match against the Hurricanes.”

Ranitu indicated they would work on a few things that they lacked in their 17-11 loss to Yasawa, last Saturday.

He added that his side did not execute their game plan well and he hopes that it would change tomorrow.

The 23-year-old Ramasibana has played eight matches for Perpignan in the French Top 14 competition.

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