Nalaga To Start?
■Nadroga Rugby Union waits for FRU’s release ■Stallions to play for their fans who were affected by COVID-19, Cyclone Harold ■We’ll play to the last whistle, says Matawalu
Former Flying Fijians burly winger Napolioni Nalaga is set to start for Nadroga in their double header clash against Suva on Saturday.
This was confirmed yesterday by
Nadroga Rugby Union president,
Tiko Matawalu.
“Nalaga has been cleared by his overseas club,” Matawalu said.
“We are now waiting for his clearance from the Fiji Rugby Union but his name is on the team list.” Mat aw al us aid as Fare brother Sullivan Trophy holders they were wary of defending Skipper Cup champions Suva.
He pointed out that Suva had what it took to beat them.
“Suva is a well-oiled machine,” the former Flying Fijians prop said. “Suva has prepared well and they are ready to roll and we are looking forward to the game.
“I’m sure they are more desperate to win this game than any other game they have are going to play this year.
Matawalu indicated that they were aware of what they were going to encounter against Suva and have been preparing for it.
The Stallions have been training under head coach Esala Nauga for the past month and have also taken to the Sigatoka sand dunes. “Playing and winning the Farebrother Trophy is a culture in Nadroga.
“We will fight right to the last whistle when it comes to retaining the Farebrother. Our fans will be out in numbers to watch us play and we will play for them.
“They (fans) have been affected during the COVID-19 pandemic and the destruction brought by Cyclone Harold.
“We are hoping to bring smiles on their faces with the final result of Saturday’s game.”
Matawalu said he has confidence in the coaching staff as they put together the 23 players to help retain the country’s prestigious rugby title.
“They know the suitable players that can deliver for Nadroga. We are in the game week and it’s all about doing light work on the pitch and touching up on our game plans. “There’s nothing much that we can do this week but to focus on what we have been working hard on for the past four weeks.