The Suva Rugby Union Escott Shield semi-finals are set for Saturday, featuring Army Green facing Fresh’et Navy, while the Eastern Saints, led by Seremaia Bai, will go up against SCB Police. SRU secretary Nemani Tuifagalele confirmed the matches yesterday, noting that the exact venue is yet to be finalized.
Currently, Buckhurst and Bidesi Park are reserved by Oceania, and the Laucala grounds are not available. Tuifagalele mentioned that the University of the South Pacific (USP) grounds are booked, and they are working to secure the best location for the semi-finals, which could be at either the USP ground or Suva Grammar grounds.
He emphasized the excitement surrounding the upcoming games, urging supporters to attend what he describes as one of the most anticipated semi-finals ever. The competition this season has proven to be intense, making predictions quite challenging, as all four teams vying for the top spot have shown their prowess.
SCB Police, one of the favorites, advanced through a difficult match against Lomaiviti in last week’s quarter-final. The team boasts experienced players such as veteran Number 8 James Brown and Paris Olympics silver medallist Terio Tamani. Tuifagalele acknowledged the defending champions’ strengths and their familiarity with the Escott Shield, having won it multiple times, including a narrow victory over Fresh’et Navy in last year’s final.
He praised Lomaiviti for their commendable performance in the quarter-finals, highlighting an improvement in the intensity and quality of the competition over the past years. This progress is attributed to the commitment to grassroots development, which is positively impacting club-level performances.