Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) operations manager and tournament director Jikoibau Matawalu has confirmed that the Inkk Farebrother Sullivan trophy challenge match between holders Lautoka and Naitasiri will be held at Churchill Park, Lautoka this Saturday.

Maroons defeated Suva 21 – 19 at Lawaqa Park last week to retain the trophy.

“It’s a different ball game and playing at Churchill Park will be an advantage for Lautoka but they cannot rule out Naitasiri who are not new to this type of match,” Matawalu said.

“Naitasiri is a team that will provide competition and a fierce challenge that is worthy of the Farebrother trophy.”

Matawalu said it was major boost to see Lautoka and Ba from the Vanua Championship last season secure top eight spot in the Skipper Cup this season.

“It’s a testimony of the hard work that they put together over the years,” he said.

“We want underdog sides to progress and compete in that level of competition.”

Matawalu said the Farebrother match will be played at ground one at Churchill Park.

“Lautoka was not able to host last week due to the unavailability of the ground,” he said.

“Naitasiri will be coming in with their large followers.”

Matawalu said admission fees to the match remain at $15 for adults and $5 for children under 12.

“From the Rugby House, we are able to see the game taken to another level with the supporters following their teams,” he said.

“For Lautoka to break through to the top five spot and challenge for the Farebrother is a major achievement for them.”

History

The Lautoka team last hosted the Farebrother Cup challenge match in 2003.

The Maroons side at the time had defeated Naitasiri 18 – 13 and defended the coveted trophy against top teams like Nadi, Suva and Nadroga.

Tailevu was the team that ended Lautoka’s dominant run in the Farebrother trophy challenge.

The match between the Maroons and Highlanders kicks off at 3pm.

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