Malolo Rugby has secured the services of former Nadroga head coach Esala Nauga and prop Setefano Somoca to boost their preparations ahead of the final round of promotion and relegation this Saturday.
Malolo will face Vatukoula at Churchill Park ground 3 in Lautoka at 11am.
To qualify for the Skipper Cup competition next year, Malolo needs either a win, a draw, or a bonus loss (if they score four tries in a loss).
In contrast, Vatukoula needs a bonus win with a good points differential, and they must hope Namosi loses to Yasawa without a bonus point.
Currently, Malolo leads the table with nine points, followed by Namosi with six points, Vatukoula with five points, and Yasawa with one point.
Malolo Rugby president Ratu Jone Tuilawa expressed gratitude for the addition of Nauga and Somoca to the coaching panel, which includes head coach Rupeni Nasiga and assistant coach Jiuta Lutumailagi.
He believes their experience will be crucial in Malolo’s bid for promotion to the Skipper Cup competition next season.
“Nauga and Somoca’s inclusion in the coaching panel is a big boost for our players, they are happy and grateful to Nauga guiding them in the final week of promotion relegation this week.
“The players are preparing well against Vatukoula and are excited to play,” Tuilawa said.
The Malolo rugby team has been in camp in Sigatoka since Monday, focusing on their must-win match against Vatukoula.
“We need to win, and the players are all aware that we have to beat Vatukoula,” he added.
He also acknowledged the support from families and friends who sponsored individual players during their $200 player sponsorship drive.
“We want to thank all the families for supporting the players, giving their time and money for Malolo Rugby,” Tuilawa added.
Malolo is co-managed by Semi Cabenalotu and Jone Soronavatu.
