Naitasiri will be looking to end their 15-year Skipper Cup drought when they take on Malolo in the final this Saturday.
The last time Naitasiri won the Skipper Cup title was in 2010.
Head Coach, Dr Ilaitia Tuisese, says the weight of history adds to the challenge, as they have not won the local competition for 15 years.
Tuisese says he has placed the challenge on the boys and reminded them that everyone’s input is vital for a win.
He highlighted the invaluable role senior players are playing in camp, saying their experience is crucial in guiding the final’s debutants.
Tuisese adds that only four of their players have featured in a grand final before — for most, this will be their first.
He also expressed immense pride in the squad’s journey to the final, attributing their success to a collective effort.
Naitasiri’s last final was in 2022, where they lost 16-11 to Nadi. Suva then claimed the title in 2023, defeating Nadi 16-3, before Nadroga took the cup last year in a thrilling 22-17 win over Suva.
Tuisese is calling on the province’s famed supporters to pack the HFC Bank Stadium and become the 16th player on the field.
He has issued a rallying cry for all supporters from the Vanua to come out in force and back the team as they face a confident Malolo side hoping to cause an upset in what promises to be a spectacular Skipper Cup finale.
Naitasiri will take on Malolo at 3pm this Saturday.
Meanwhile, Namosi will take on Suva at 11am in the Marama Cup final, and Naitasiri will meet Nadi at 1pm in the U20 final.
All matches will be held at the HFC Bank Stadium.
