Uphill battle in Sigatoka

AS the Stallions prepare to defend the Farebrother trophy, they received the news that their president Tiko Matawalu will join FRU as a development officer for region five which includes Nadroga, Nadi, Navosa, Malolo, Yasawa and Vatulele.

I commend Tiko Matawalu for his perseverance, passion, commitment and leadership as he steered the Stallions to success. Hence, Tiko’s successor will have a lot to do to maintain the legacy left by him as under Matawalu’s guidance and leadership the Stallions rose to the occasion and made headlines many times. On the other hand, I’m hoping that this news will motivate the Stallions to gift their president a grand farewell. Tiko’s presence is going to boost FRU and will be an added advantage to the rugby house.

Francis Kean’s departure as the chairman of FRU came as a shock and I read that the appointee for the PM is Conway Beg. I urge FRU to give the duo a guard of honour during the Suva versus Nadroga clash to recognise their input, efforts, commitment, passion and dedication to rugby. I’m sure Alipate Tuberi will agree with me. Lawaqa Park will be in frenzy today as fans witness champagne rugby and as yesterday’s The Fiji Times captured - expect fireworks!

This match will be a replay of the 2018 and 2019 Skipper Cup final and 2019 Farebrother Sullivan Trophy challenge. I agree with Matawalu that the Suva versus Nadroga clash is going to set the benchmark for the rest of the season. Fiji’s Holy Grail the Farebrother Sullivan Trophy and the Skipper Cup are at stake and I wish my Nadroga team all the best and I thank the Old War Horse (Waqe Osi) for all their support! I also wish Alipate Tuberi, John Stewart and the Suva team the very best.

I’m sure just like me, Maikeli Seru, our veteran sports writer, will be cheering for the Stallions. Hakwa Nadro! RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM Nadawa, Nasinu