Defending Skipper Cup champions Malolo will head into hostile territory this Saturday when they face Nadroga in a crucial Round 7 clash at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
With just one point separating the two sides on the competition table, the encounter shapes up as one of the key matches of the weekend as the race for the knockout stages begins to intensify.
Nadroga currently sit third on the standings with 21 points, while Malolo are close behind in fourth place with 20 points, having recorded four wins, one draw and one loss this season.
With the competition heading towards the quarterfinals, semifinals and final, every competition point will become increasingly important.
Malolo Rugby Union President Ratu Jone Tuilawa says the defending champions are aware of the challenge awaiting them at Lawaqa and have been working hard since returning to camp on Sunday.
He says the players are well prepared for the upcoming matches, especially against the bigger teams in the competition.
Saturday’s meeting also brings back memories of last season’s thrilling encounter between the two sides, when Malolo held off a determined Nadroga fightback to claim a narrow 26-24 victory.
Malolo raced to a 20-7 halftime lead before Nadroga fought their way back into the contest, setting up a tense finish.
Ratu Jone expects another physical and closely fought battle this weekend, particularly with Nadroga playing in front of their home supporters at Lawaqa.
Malolo will also enter the match with confidence after securing a dramatic last-minute victory over Lautoka last weekend.
However, the focus for the coaching staff has quickly shifted towards regrouping the players and preparing for what is expected to be a much tougher assignment against Nadroga.
Another encouraging feature of Malolo’s campaign has been the emergence of younger players, with several coming through the Under-20 ranks and making their presence felt in the senior team.
Ratu Jone believes their development will be important as Malolo look to build momentum during the second half of the competition and position themselves strongly for the knockout stages.
He has also called on Malolo supporters in Sigatoka and surrounding areas to turn up in numbers and provide their backing at Lawaqa.
Malolo will face Nadroga at 3pm on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Round 7 will kick off with Suva facing Lautoka at 3pm tomorrow at Bidesi Park.
In other matches on Saturday, Nadi will take on Ba at King Charles Park, Kadavu will meet Tailevu at Burebasaga School Ground, Naitasiri will play Navosa at Ratu Cakobau Park, and Taveuni will host Rewa at Wairiki School Ground.
All matches will kick off at 3pm.
