FIJI Rugby Union General Manager Operations and Development, Sale Sorovaki, says the Skipper Cup semi-finals will be held in Suva next week as they look forward to another exciting round of top-level rugby.
Sorovaki said the quarter-finals over the weekend showcased how competitive the competition has become, with several upsets and close finishes.
“We have just finished the quarter finals of the Skipper Cup, and they were all close games with a few surprises Tailevu dropped third-placed Lautoka, Nadi upset second-placed Suva here at Churchill Park, while at Lawaqa Park, Malolo beat Nadroga,” Sorovaki said.
He commended all teams for their effort and contribution to this year’s competition.
“The semi-final venue next week at the moment is booked in Suva, but we thank all teams that have put up their hands this year.
“Lot of close matchups, and it’s good to see the level of the games increasing, especially with the injection of our Swire Shipping Fijian Drua players,” he said.
Sorovaki added that the FRU takes pride in the domestic competition, as it continues to be the main pathway for developing elite players for national duty.
“It’s something that we are proud of our domestic competition is where our elite players come through. From FRU, we are grateful to all the teams that have participated in the Skipper Cup, and congratulations to the top four heading into the semi-finals next week(this week),” he said.
Sorovaki also acknowledged the performance of teams in the U20 and ANZ Marama Championships, saying both grades displayed strong competition.
In the U20 quarter-finals, Naitasiri defeated Vatukoula 23–14, Fiji Pine Ba edged Macuata 20–15, and Nadi narrowly beat Tailevu 18–15.
Meanwhile, in the Subrails ANZ Marama Championship, Nasinu thrashed Naitasiri 67–22, Kadavu proved too strong for Nadroga winning 32–29, Suva overcame Lautoka 38–32, and Namosi defeated Nadi 35–17.
