Grammar on alert against giant slayers Ba Pro

"It's now or never!"

The Suva Grammar School (SGS) Under-18 rugby team knows there is no room for complacency when they face giant killers Ba Provincial Freebird Institute (Ba Pro) in today's quarterfinal of the Vodafone Deans Trophy at Suva's National Stadium.

Ba Pro heads into the knockout clash full of confidence after upsetting Queen Victoria School (QVS) on a technicality in last Saturday's elimination round.

Both teams were tied 29-29 at full-time but the match was awarded to Ba Pro for scoring the first try as per competition rules.

SGS team manageress Evia Turaganivalu highlighted that they must be at their best if they are to secure a place in the semi-final.

She said her players are not underestimating their opponent despite entering the match as one of the competition favourites.

"We're not taking any team lightly," Turaganivalu said.

"We respect our opponents because every team has worked hard to reach this stage of the competition. Ba Provincial has prepared well to come this far and we know they will present a tough challenge."

She said SGS had maintained their normal routine ahead of the crucial encounter, choosing not to change their preparation despite the pressure of knockout rugby.

"We prepare for every match as though it is the final and that's exactly how we've approached this week.

"We believe consistency in our preparation is important."

Turaganivalu said the coaching staff had spent the week reviewing last weekend's performance and addressing areas that needed improvement before today's match.

"We've gone back and corrected the mistakes from our last game.

"Our focus this week has been on improving our ball carries, attack and defence.

"The boys have responded well and they're ready for the challenge."

She acknowledged that every team remaining in the competition shares the same ambition of progressing to the semi-finals.

"Every team dreams of winning the quarterfinal and taking the next step.

"We'll focus on our game, stick to our structures and take the match as it comes."

Turaganivalu also thanked the school's loyal supporters for standing behind the team throughout the season and urged them to turn out in numbers.

"We thank God for His guidance and strength throughout the season.

"We also acknowledge the old scholars, Grammar Rugby and the parents for their unwavering support.

"We hope to see everyone at the ground cheering the boys on," she added.

The match kicks off at 5.55pm.