DISCIPLINE will be crucial for defending champions Malolo when they face the Inkk Farebrother-Sullivan Trophy defending champion Naitasiri in the Skipper Cup quarter-final at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva tomorrow.
Malolo Rugby Union president Jone Tuilawa said the team had returned to camp to review its mistakes from last week’s match and strengthen key areas of its game ahead of the knockout clash.
Tuilawa said the focus this week was on improving the team’s set-piece and lineouts while ensuring the players remained disciplined under pressure.
“The boys have been preparing well since Sunday. They marched back into camp and are back to the drawing board with their coaches,” Tuilawa said.
He acknowledged that the team had a few injury concerns and would also be without Douglas Daveta and Isaia Rugu, who are away on national duties.
However, Tuilawa said the players selected for the quarterfinal had stepped up, with several new faces included in the match-day line-up.
With Naitasiri known for its own style of rugby, Tuilawa said Malolo would need to remain focused and execute its game plan throughout the contest.
He stressed that discipline remained a priority, both during the team’s week-long camp and on the field.
“Discipline is the main priority in the Malolo Rugby Camp, especially when we are camping the boys away from home throughout the week,” he said.
“Discipline will be a key weapon for this weekend’s clash. The best-disciplined team will take out the victory this weekend.”
Tuilawa said the team management had ensured that preparations, including meals, training and the players’ welfare, were carefully planned to give the defending champions the best possible preparation.
He acknowledged that the quarterfinal would be a difficult challenge, particularly with both teams meeting at a neutral venue in Suva.
Malolo’s immediate objective is to secure a place in the semi-finals, but Tuilawa said the players must enjoy the occasion and produce quality rugby against the highlanders.
“We know it’s going to be very tough, especially when the two teams are meeting in Suva,” he said.
“Our aim for this week is to go out there and get the boys to enjoy the HFC Bank Stadium and play quality rugby.”
Tuilawa also acknowledged the supporters who had stood behind the team throughout the 11-round competition and during the pre-season.
He called on the people of Malolo Island, the Vanua o Lawa, the Vanua o Nakuruvarua, neighbouring resorts in Malolo and all supporters of the team to turn out in numbers for tomorrow’s match.
The quarter-final kicks off at 1pm at HFC Bank Stadium.
Tuilawa. Picture:
FILE
