Fiji Sun

Tailevu Opt For Underdog Tag

- SIMIONE HARAVANUA SUVA Edited by Leone Cabenatabu­a Feedback: simione.haravanua@fijisun.com.fj

The Tailevu rugby team are focusing on character building ahead of tonight’s must win clash against Suva at the ANZ Stadium, Suva.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday Tailevu coach Samisoni Baikeitoga said the team are rebuilding after a close encounter against Nadroga, last weekend.

“Last week’s loss to Nadroga is history and we have forgotten about it and this week is a new week where our focus is on Suva,” he said.

“This week we are building up the player’s character and mental toughness.

“It is something I believe that we really need to work on against a champion side like Suva.

“We know they will be tough playing at home but we will give it our best shot.

“It’s all about taking opportunit­ies and turning them into points and that’s where the mentality of the players are put to the test.”

Baikeitoga added that they are heading into the game as underdogs.

“We are facing another giant of rugby in Fiji and they are

the champions Suva side.

“The outcome of the game will depend on how well we do the small things right and how we approach our structure and game plans.” Meanwhile, Ram Sami sponsored Suva side have made changes to the team that beat Nadi. last Friday..

Suva’s line-up: 1. Ananaia Rabonu, 2. Lino Vasuinadi, 3. Manasa Saulo, 4. Manoa Tamaya, 5. Israel Azariah, 6. Tui Cakacaka, 7. Taniela Sadrugu, 8. James Brown, 9. Nemani Buliruarua, 10. Enele Malele, 11. Josefa Vurewa, 12. John Stewart, 13. Jope Tikomailep­anoni, 14. Tevita Murimuriva­lu, 15. Jeke Suguturaga.

Reserves: 16. Emosi Saladuadua, 17. Meli Tuni, 18. Benji Makutu, 19. Peni Tuiteci, 20. Lemeki Saulailai, 21. Jo Vesikara, 22. Seru Vularika, 23. Sireli Maqala.

WHAT’S ON TODAY

Vodafone Vanua Championsh­ip quarterfin­als at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori.

At 2pm Northland vs Macuata and 4pm Rewa v Ovalau

 ?? Photo: Ronald Kumar ?? Veteran Tailevu fullback Simeli Koniferedi could be their trumpcard in tonight’s Skipper Cup clash against Suva at the ANZ Stadium.
Photo: Ronald Kumar Veteran Tailevu fullback Simeli Koniferedi could be their trumpcard in tonight’s Skipper Cup clash against Suva at the ANZ Stadium.

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