Finau's money on Nadorga

The Fiji Times - Friday, October 09, 2009 1:15 PM

FORMER national 15s skipper Iokimi Finau says the captains of Naitasiri and Nadroga will play key roles in determining the outcome of the Farebrother Sullivan Trophy clash at Ratu Cakobau Park tomorrow afternoon.

“The decisions they take at crucial facets of the game could turn the game for or against them. It will be a close and evenly contested match,” Finau said.

“On paper Nadroga looks to be the better team but the final decisions rest on both
skippers Tiko Matawalu and Apisai Rinamalo and how they are able to establish control and discipline when the heat is on.

"Looks like the Farebrother Trophy will spend Christmas and New Year in Nadroga."

Finau said Naitasiri had proven to be Fiji's renewed power in provincial rugby, however, the Stallion's had a mission to accomplish in Nausori.

The former Nadi and national team flanker dubbed the “ironman”, who made his Test debut against Australia at the National Stadium, said Nadroga had the depth of players to produce a positive result their way.

"I think Nadroga plays a more constructive game. They play according to the pattern which should give them an edge."

Naitasiri on the other hand have a brilliant halfback in Vatuvoka who likes to mix it with the forwards and a strong midfield combination of Leone Tabuarua and Paula Tiko who have been the strike weapons for the Highlanders.

Nadroga will rely on the services of Rupeni Nasiga, Etonia Naba, Apisai Turukawa, Tiko Matawalu in the forwards while Jiuta Lutumailagi, Emosi Vucago, Jonetani Ratu and Simeli Koniferedi have proved top be a solid combination that will lift Nadroga’s bid to wrestle the silverware.