Patrick in for Tailevu

Fiji Times - Saturday, October 27, 2007 7:45 AM

TAILEVU super sub Jim Patrick has been promoted to the starting XV to face Lautoka in the defence of the Farebrother Challenge Trophy at Ratu Cakobau Park today.

Patrick came off the bench against Suva two weeks ago to help his side scrap through to a 25-22 famous victory at the death.

He replaces suspended Wate Vocevoce, who is serving a two match ban after receiving a red card in Tailevu's 13-8 victory over Nadi last weekend.

The other change in the team sees big forward Akuila Matanibukaca make way for Uraia Tuidama at number four.

Jone Kaila will captain the team.

Meanwhile, Knights coach Eddie Waqa said Lautoka would need to put in a big effort to dethrone a Tailevu side riding high on success.

He said the Maroons would need to the points on offer or face the same consequences as Nadi did.

"Lautoka must dig deep. They haven't been playing rugby for the last five weeks so their fitness will be a question. They've got to force Tailevu into making mistakes like Nadi did," Waqa said.

"They need to turn every opportunity into points. They have a good kicker in Iliesa Nalawaniyavi and he is a match winner. Otherwise it will be an uphill battle for them."

Waqa said Tailevu had set the momentum with four successful defences - beating seasonal opponents Naitasiri, Suva and Nadi.

"After playing consecutive games, I think the team spirit and morale is high," he said.

"They've built on their defence since the Sanyo Cup. During those games, they lost a lot of matches in the last quarter. They've analysed their weaknesses and worked on it.

"They have also been able to build on their match fitness." Waqa said Tailevu have been playing smart rugby to help keep the silverware.

"The morale and trust for playing for each other is there. That is their strength."

Fiji's top referee James Bolabiu will control the match which kicks off at 3pm.

Tailevu:(15-1) Iliesa Keresoni, Eneri Kuru, Kalivati Cavuilati, Vilitati Togavou, Malakai Bakaniceva, James Vuli, Nemia Kenatale, Jone Kaila, Sairusi Kadi, Jim Patrick, Peni Tora, Uraia Tuidama, Sunia Sevu, Saula Qalomai, Remesio Ravuiwasa.

Reserves: Taitusi Kadi, Josese Bale, Akuila Matanibukaca, Romuluse Rotukana, Sisa Waqa.