The inaugural battle between our forces has certainly lived up to expectations.
The ANZ Stadium will be a sea of blue and red as Police and Army keep the Sukuna Bowl spirit alive.
Army is hungry for a win because the warriors from Delainabua have been unsuccessful for two years.
On the other hand, the Police soccer team has already set the challenge after defeating their counterparts 1-0 while RFMF beat Police by four wickets to take home the cricket title.
Therefore, the rugby battle is shaping up to be a mental, spiritual and physical contest. Both teams have been training and working on strategies to win the prestigious challenge while unveiling talented players in the much-anticipated showdown.
While RFMF Commander Rear Admiral Viliame Naupoto said this year would be the toughest game Police would ever have and his band would have to empty the tank of god-given talent. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Rusiate Tudravu said they preferred to be David rather than be Goliath.
History favours the Police side as they have already completed a hat-trick from 1970-1972 and 1995-1997.
The Blues brigade has won the challenge in 2016 and 2017. Thus, based on history Police is expected to complete the treble. I know that Police has left no stones unturned in their bid to retain the challenge and their unity and hard work will be put to test against an unpredictable Army side.
The Blues outfit is up against the world champions of the Defence Rugby League World Cup and the Defence Rugby World Cup.
With these wins in the bag, the Army side is expected to give its opponents a huge struggle as it has what it takes to spoil the Diwali mood in the Blues camp.
Army has a formidable line-up and big names while Police have the heart to match the warriors from Delainabua.
Spectators are in for a real rugby test and treat likened to the Fiji Drua versus Queensland Country battle at Churchill Park tomorrow.
While Police and Army will battle for 80 minutes, their loyal fans will be cheering their lungs out and will battle off the field singing songs and waving their flags. As I conclude, I wish Police and Army all the best for the Sukuna Bowl challenge and may the best team win.
