Skipper Cup: Vocevoce and Canakaivata to start for Nadi against Macuata

Fijian Drua lock Mesake Vocevoce and No.8 Elia Canakaivata have been named in Nadi’s line-up to face visitors Macuata in today’s Skipper Cup clash at Prince Charles Park. 

The duo have been included along with experienced players of Peniona Vuki, Vilive Aria and centre Moape Qio.

Nadi Rugby Union vice-president Jeff Tamata said they fielded 13 debutants in their Skipper Cup opener against Lautoka.

“We trust our system, our process,” he said. 

“’It gave us the result even though it was a very tight match. We were so thankful that the boys delivered on the day.” 

He added that this week, they had a lot of work-ons. 

“We’re working around the clock. We’re now ready to iron out a lot of things.” 

He said Macuata, under the watchful eyes of head coach would be a different team. 

“We know that Macuata, even though they are coming back, they have a very good coaching staff also, a well-known former national coach like Osea Umuumulovo,” Tamata said. 

“They took the Nadroga scrum as they have a lot of muscle but we’ve got it. So, we are not taking them lightly, we will produce the result that is needed.” 

Macuata head coach Umuumulovo said, they have gone through the video of their game against Nadroga and have learned from it.

“We have key areas to work on, such as the scrum. 

“Nadi is very similar to Nadroga, another giant in the rugby competition and it will be an uphill battle for us. 

“The boys have been told not to lose focus but to continue with what they have been taught in training.”

He urged Macuata fans to wear red when they come out to cheer. 

The match kicks off at 3pm.