Star No.9 back to Skipper Cup
“We have to improve our defence so that we can be able to contain Macuata. We understand they’ll come firing at us so we have to work around our defence this week.”
Thursday 14 August 2025 | 23:30
Fijian Drua halfback Peni Matawalu makes a return to the Skipper Cup as he plays for the General Machinery Lautoka side against Macuata at Subrail Park, Labasa, tomorrow.
This was confirmed to SUNsports yesterday by Lautoka Rugby Union (LRU) secretary Setareki Rakoto.
“He’ll (Matawalu) be playing this week. Isikeli Rabitu is still out injured,” Rakoto said.
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“Rabitu still has some niggling injuries so we’re just letting him recover.”
Rakoto said Inia Tabuavou was supposed to play this week but he’s been drafted to the Flying Fijians team.
“We know he (Matawalu) will make a difference for the boys so we’re expecting some fireworks from our team,” he said.
“The boys have prepared themself and hopefully we won’t play catch up rugby.”
Rakoto indicated that the team would take all the opportunities to register valuable points.
“We have to improve our defence so that we can be able to contain Macuata. We understand they’ll come firing at us so we have to work around our defence this week.”
Rakoto said it has been a bonus for the team to see the new players getting accustomed to the competition after their exposure in the last two rounds.
“The message from the coaches has been clear, we cannot afford to lose any more games from now on.
“The boys understand that the competition is stiff this season, not only from the big teams but also from new teams like Vatukoula and Malolo.”
Rakoto said both teams would be gunning for a win after back-to-back losses.
“This is like a do-or-die game for both of us to avoid the relegation zone. I’m urging our fans to come out in numbers and cheer us on.”
The match kicks-off at 3pm.
