Cash saga continues

Fiji Times - Friday, October 26, 2007 8:00 AM

THERE are growing concerns over the handling of gate-takings from Tailevu Rugby Union's Farebrother-Sullivan Cup challenge matches the latest from the champions stunning 13-8 win over highly fancied Nadi last Saturday.

The holders of the prestigious cup are unhappy over what they believe is vast deficiency on the actual income derived and fresh claims now emerge over sale of mysterious extra tickets.

Tailevu Rugby Union officials are to meet with the Fiji Rugby Union to discuss the issue.

The champions are disappointed over the continued cash and ticketing woes they've faced when hosting challenge matches since toppling Nadroga to wrest the cup over two months ago.

It is believed the problem surfaced in Tailevu's first defence against Ovalau, where the holders claimed $11,000 was unaccounted for, and the TRU claim little has changed since.

Last week, approximately 6000 fans watched the holders retain the cup.

TRU officials are carrying out their own investigations and have opted to remain mum on the issue until that is over.

FRU operations manager, Vilikesa Rinavuaka, yesterday denied that a meeting was arranged with the parent body to discuss Tailevu's grievance.

Rinavuaka, however, did disclose that "about $11,000" was handed out to the TRU as their share from the gate-takings of the Nadi game.

As for the extra tickets, Rinavuaka said they were not aware of that.

"The authority to sell Farebrother-Sullivan Challenge tickets is the sole prerogative of the FRU, any sales not authorized by the FRU are illegal," he said.

Tailevu takes on Lautoka tomorrow in the second last challenge of the season, starting 3pm at Ratu Cakobau Park.

The last fixture will be against the unpredictable Tavuans.

Former national sevens captain, soldier Tudriva Bainivalu is expected to lead the Maroons against Jone Kaila's men, who have been in scintillating form.

James Bolabiu will referee the match.