The Tailevu Rugby team will treat every game like a final as they gear up to face Ba in round three of the 2025 Skipper Cup competition, scheduled for 3pm today at Burebasaga District School ground in Rewa.
Following their impressive 27-22 victory over Naitasiri in round two marking their first win of the season, Tailevu Rugby’s interim head coach Joji Rinakama commended the team for their consistent and focused preparations throughout the week.
He added following their successful match against Naitasiri, the players have fully embraced their game mode and are eagerly anticipating the challenge posed by Ba.
Ba head into the match following a 33-43 lost to Malolo at Yawini Park on Mana Island last week.
“The boys have been on par with their preparations throughout the week; after the match against Naitasiri in round two, the boys got into their game mode and they can’t wait to face Ba tomorrow (today),” said Rainakama.
“Our preparation is always tough, and we treat all games as a final.”
Recognising the formidable nature of the Ba team, the players have been diligently refining their strategies.
“We all know that Ba is not an easy team to play, so we have been working on our strategies, especially in our defence and attacking near the tryline.”
With no injuries impacting the team, the boys are in optimal physical condition and ready to take the field.
Rinakama mentioned the addition of Fijian Drua player Simione Kuruvoli to the team has further enhanced their skill set, with half-back displaying his talents during the match against Naitasiri.
“We have no injuries in the team, the boys are fit and ready to take the field. It’s great to have Fijian Drua player Simi Kuruvoli in the team, he showed great skills in the game against Naitasiri, and we are hoping for another great show against Ba.”
He added it is commendable to see that the majority of Tailevu’s players hailed from the local community, having progressed from Tailevu club games to earn their spot in the main team.
The team extended a warm invitation to fans and supporters to come out in numbers and rally behind them as they strive for victory.
Meanwhile, the U20 match between Tailevu and Ba will be at 11am.