After nearly a quarter of a century without a Skipper Cup title, Naitasiri is determined to break the championship drought as they prepare to face Malolo in the final this Saturday at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Naitasiri previously reached the Skipper Cup final in 2022, but fell short against Nadi.
This year, the Highlanders have fully embraced the disappointment of the past, converting it into motivation to reclaim their status at the pinnacle of Fijian provincial rugby. Head coach Timoci Tinaviti has acknowledged the strength of their opponents, Malolo, but remains focused on executing their game plan effectively. “This Saturday the team will be playing as champions and we will be defending our turf,” Tinaviti affirmed. He emphasized that Naitasiri’s approach will be different this time.
Drawing on their past experiences, the Naitasiri squad has identified critical areas for improvement, particularly in set-piece execution, kicking strategies, and scrum performance. In their last encounter during the round one clash of the Skipper Cup at Ratu Cakobau Park in August, Naitasiri registered a convincing 36-16 victory over Malolo.
Malolo, meanwhile, is riding a wave of momentum following their impressive semifinal win against Nadi, marking a historic moment as they aim for the coveted Skipper Cup trophy. The team’s resilience has shown as they navigate the competitive landscape of Fijian rugby, particularly after an outstanding comeback to reach the final, a first in the club’s history. Their semifinal victory was driven by exceptional teamwork and a powerful performance, underscoring their commitment to making their mark in the tournament.
Fans are eager for the showdown between these two teams, with the stakes higher than ever. The final promises to be a riveting display of skill, determination, and community pride. As excitement builds around the matches scheduled for Saturday, supporters can catch all the action live on FBC 2, underscoring the spirited enthusiasm that rugby fosters across Fiji. The upcoming game not only symbolizes the pinnacle of this season’s competition but also highlights the enduring love and commitment to the sport that unites communities throughout the nation.