Western rugby league clubs are gearing up for a fierce showdown as they face off against Suva/Nasinu zone teams in today’s Vodafone Cup National Elimination Round at Lawaqa Park.

A total of 16 clubs from both zones will compete today, with nine teams from the Suva/Nasinu zone and seven from the West, all battling for a spot in the Vodafone Cup quarter-finals next week.

The seven Western clubs include defending champions Saru Dragons, Ravoravo Rabbitohs, West Coast Storm, Namoli West Tigers, Waitaci Titans, Conua Kingfisher, and Laselase Cowboys.

Each team has been preparing meticulously for this crucial stage of the competition.

Fiji National Rugby League West development officer, Jone Wesele, said the Saru Dragons are determined to defend their title.

“Saru Dragons want to defend their title and there is also challenge from other Western teams including Ravoravo Rabbitohs, Namoli West Tigers.

“The Western Clubs are not there to make numbers, but they are preparing well to win,” Wesele said.

Last year, only two Western teams advanced to the quarter-finals, but today, they aim to increase that number and secure more spots .