Tailevu to face rugby champ

IT will not be just a game for the Tailevu rugby side today when they take on Farebrother Sullivan Trophy holders Nadi at Prinche Charles Park in Nadi.

Tailevu coach Samisoni Baikeitoga labelled the clash as “facing the giants” in their attempt to claim the trophy from Nadi.

With the side having booked its participation in the Skipper Cup competition next season, Baikeitoga said the side might not have the built and size in its forwards but they had the guts to play.

The side has just two tall players in the locks positions and they are the only option in their line-outs, unlike other teams who have options in their flankers and even the number eight who all can contest the play.

The whole team almost have the same built - from the front row to fullback and the only way you can differentiate them is through their jersey numbers.

“Its going to be a ‘David and Goliath’ battle for us,” Baikeitoga said.

“Nadi have big players and that is the first hurdle for us and also facing them in their own back yard.

“We will turn up well prepared to face the Nadi giants,” he said.

Tailevu’s first success in the Farebrother-Sullivan Challenge trophy campaign according to Wikipedia was in 2003 when they defeated Lautoka 14-19 in the last challenge.

The side defended it against Navosa 25-20, against Namosi 23-12, they defeated Vatukoula 33-18 before current holder Nadi demolished them 18-34. After Nadroga’s reign in 2007, Tailevu snatched the trophy from Ovalau with a 2112 victory.

The side defended it 10-6 against Naitasiri, survived a 25-22 win against the Capital City side, a 17-10 run-away victory against Lautoka and survive a close contested 13-8 against the Jetsetters.

The same year they defeated Tavua 25-14 before successfully taking home the trophy against Nadroga in a close game 17-14.

The side last won the trophy in 2012. The match will kick off at 3pm at Churchill Park in Nadi today.