Savusavu 7s set for new winner

There will be a new winner in this weekend's Fiji Bitter Savusavu 7s Tournament.

This was confirmed to SUNsports yesterday by tournament organiser Pita Ralaca.

"Last year's winners Devo Babaas have not registered for this year's tournament," he said.

Ralaca said a total of 56 teams have registered and would be participating in the three-day tour­nament, which kicks-off today at Ratu Ganilau Park in Savusavu.

"We have 32 senior men's teams, 16 teams for the Under-21 division and eight women's teams," Ralaca said.

"At the moment, everything (team list) is the same. All the teams have arrived in Savusavu."

An added feature is the presence of the Fiji Coral Coast 7s tourna­ment champions Yaro Chiefs who are expected to field star playmaker Amenioni Nasilsila.

Among them is Fiji Bitter 7s Se­ries leaders Army Green who are expecting a tough challenge from Police Blue.

Ralaca said it's going to be an ex­citing three-day tournament.

He said Army Red and Wardens are the teams to watch as they can upset the giants.

"We also have strong teams from Lomaloma Heights and several teams from Taveuni," he said.

Ralaca confirmed that the prize money has been increased for this year's tournament.

"The men's cup winners will re­ceive $8000, while the runners-up will get $4000. We've also increased the women's and Under-21 as well. This is done to benefit our local teams," he said.

Ralaca called on rugby fans in Va­nua Levu to attend the tournament.

"This is good news for fans who want to watch top rugby players in Savusavu. Many local teams will also be competing," he added.

How much winners get?

Men's category:

Men's category:

■ Cup winners: $8000

■ Runners up: $4000

Women's category:

■ Cup winners: $2000

■ Runners up: $1000

U21 category:

■ Cup winners: $2000

■ Runners up: $1000.

Feedback: tevita.w@fijisun.com.fj