NAITASIRI has a title to defend, a reputation to protect and a formidable challenge waiting in their path as they prepare to launch their INKK Farebrother Trophy defence against Ra today.
Retaining the trophy will demand more than the performances that brought them glory, particularly as they look to restore the confidence of their supporters.
Head coach Timoci Tinaviti is under no illusion about the challenge ahead, with Ra arriving in Suva fresh from their success as the 2026 Vodafone Vanua Champions.
For Naitasiri, however, the opening encounter is about setting the right tone and reminding their challengers why they hold the Farebrother-Sullivan Trophy.
Tinaviti acknowledged the magnitude of the task, admitting that defending the trophy against a confident Ra outfit would be no easy assignment.
“First of all, I want to thank the Lord Almighty for this opportunity. It’s not easy for us to defend this trophy against Ra,” Tinaviti said. “It’s very important for us because it’s our first defence. Although we are not coming off the same final performance as before, we will try our best to rebuild the confidence of our supporters.”
Naitasiri will host Ra at 4pm at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
