The first semi-final of the Suva Rugby Union Escott Shield will feature an exciting match between Army Green and Fresh’et Navy this Saturday. In the other semi-final, the Eastern Saints, led by Seremaia Bai, will compete against SCB Police.
SRU secretary Nemani Tuifagalele confirmed the matchups yesterday, noting that the final venue for both games will be announced later. The grounds at Buckhurst and Bidesi Park are currently booked by Oceania, and Laucala grounds are not available.
“We have secured the USP grounds, but we are exploring the best options for hosting the semi-finals,” Tuifagalele stated. “It will likely be either at the USP ground or Suva Grammar grounds.”
He expressed excitement for the matches, urging supporters to attend what he called the most anticipated semi-final to date. With the competition having proven to be fiercely challenging this season, he emphasized the high caliber of all four competing teams.
SCB Police, the favorites, recently triumphed in a tough quarter-final against Lomaiviti. The team boasts experienced players such as veteran Number 8 James Brown and Paris Olympics silver medalist Terio Tamani. “Police is a formidable opponent and the defending champions,” Tuifagalele remarked, highlighting their experience with the Escott Shield, having won it multiple times.
Last year, Police narrowly defeated Fresh’et Navy 13-11 in a tightly fought Escott Shield final at Buckhurst Park, Suva. Tuifagalele praised Lomaiviti for their impressive quarter-final performance against the reigning champions.
He noted that while the number of teams has remained stable over the last two years, the competition’s intensity and quality have improved significantly, attributing this progress to the dedication to grassroots development in club rugby.