Malolo Rugby is set to face Naitasiri in what promises to be an exhilarating Skipper Cup final this Saturday. Following an impressive journey throughout the tournament, Malolo has surprised many by defeating established teams, including powerhouse Nadroga in the quarter-finals and Nadi in the semi-finals.
Captain Esala Nalobo expressed both respect and determination, acknowledging the strength of Naitasiri while asserting that his team is unwavering in their pursuit of victory. He stated, “Naitasiri is not a new team; this is their field… We will always look up to them and always accord them the respect they deserve as a champion team, but that won’t stop us from playing our best this Saturday.”
The upcoming match holds immense significance for both teams. Naitasiri is striving to end a 15-year title drought, with their last Skipper Cup victory dating back to 2010. Despite their history of near misses in the finals, Naitasiri’s team manager, Pena Qaia, emphasized the necessity of staying focused on the present challenge against a determined Malolo squad, which has earned the moniker “giant slayers” throughout this season.
Fans of both teams can look forward to an action-packed day, with multiple matches taking place at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Along with the senior final, the Under-20 final features Naitasiri clashing with Nadi earlier in the day. The vibrant atmosphere, bolstered by the passionate support from fans, reflects the deep-rooted love for rugby in Fiji.
As Malolo embarks on this crucial match, their underdog journey and the strong community spirit surrounding the club serve as a testament to resilience and hope. The anticipation surrounding the final is palpable, and it underscores the pride and aspirations both teams bring to the field, making this a memorable occasion in Fijian rugby history. The match is set to kick off at 3 PM and will be broadcast live on FBC Two, as fans nationwide rally behind their teams in pursuit of glory.