The BLK Nadroga rugby team has set its sight in booking a spot in the Skipper Cup grand final next Saturday.

The Stallions take on Naitasiri tomorrow in their Skipper Cup semifinal at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday Nadroga Rugby Union president Jiuta Waqavonovono said they are at a stage where they don’t want to lose.

“At this stage no one wants to lose, the preparation level will be more intense just to meet the standards of the Skipper Cup finals,” he said.

“We have to prepare well but the good thing is that the weather is kind and the training has been good.”

Waqavonovono said the wet weather conditions had been their biggest challenge in their last match against Naitasiri.

“The fine weather has improved our preparation phase, and we are looking forward to have a good game with Naitasiri this weekend,” he said.

“The last time fitness took its toll just because the underfoot was very heavy.”

Waqavonovono said the players would need to work on their combinations before facing Naitasiri.

“We have to keep the opposition guessing on what is the plan of action by Nadroga rugby.

“I know Naitasiri is preparing well against us, but we don’t want to be predictable in this game.”

Waqavonovono said five of the Fijian Drua players who represented Nadroga in the Skipper Cup competition would leave the country today.

“We have been rebuilding and trying to restore Nadroga rugby to its glory days.

“We are young, so I’ve been telling the players that if they improve their game and fitness; rugby will be the winner and they’ll be players to watch in the future.”

Waqavonovono said fitness is a priority for their players if they intend to pursue a professional rugby career.

“Last year we had injuries in the semi-finals where we had a halfback playing in the wing and his wing partner was a new player,” he said.

“I’m not going contemplate on last year’s semifinal as fate has done its part and those players gained experience from that.”

Waqavonovono said team spirit and comradery is their biggest strength in their Skipper Cup campaign.

“Our team is really disciplined, and we know what to expect in a high-pressure game like this.

“You need players that are experienced to play that type of rugby and the intensity out there because at the end of the day, rugby is the winner.”

Waqavonovono made the comment in regards to the brawl between the Macuata and Naitasiri players at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori, last week.

“Rugby is a hooligan’s game played by gentlemen,” he said.

“I want to invite all the Nadroga rugby fans to watch to come and support team this Saturday at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori.”

Waqavonovono has wished all the teams the best in their semifinal matches.

“May the best team win on Saturday,” he said.

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