A highly anticipated southern zone showdown will take place today in Laucala Bay, Suva, as teams vie for positions in the national quarter-finals of the Vodafone Deans competition. The Buckhurst and Bidesi grounds will host the finals of the Southern Zone Secondary Schools Rugby Union’s prestigious tournament.
The competition commenced last month in Navua, drawing participation from nearly 30 secondary schools and 78 teams, offering an exciting opportunity for young athletes to showcase their talents. Last week’s matches at Suva Grammar School’s grounds resulted in the home team’s qualification for the finals across all grades, which include under-14 to under-18 categories.
A standout matchup will see Marist Brothers High School challenge Suva Grammar in the under-18 final, marking their first appearance at this stage since 2022, putting an end to a two-year wait.
Tickets for today’s finals are available through Ticketmate for $10, and will cost $15 at the gate.
The fixture schedule for the day is as follows:
On Buckhurst Ground 1:
– 8:30-9:25 AM – U14 Final: Dudley vs. SGS
– 9:35-10:40 AM – U15 Final: Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School vs. SGS
– 10:50 AM-12:05 PM – U19 Final: Ratu Simione Matanitobua College vs. Nasinu Secondary School
– 12:15-1:10 PM – U18 Raluve Final: NSS vs. MGM
– 1:20-2:35 PM – U18 Playoff: NSS vs. Nabua Secondary School
– 2:40-3:55 PM – U18 Final: MBHS vs. SGS
On Buckhurst Ground 2:
– 8:30-9:35 AM – U16 Playoff: Gospel High School vs. NSS
– 9:40-10:35 AM – U14 Playoff: MBHS vs. NSS
On Bidesi Ground:
– 8:30-9:35 AM – U15 Playoff: NSS vs. MBHS
– 9:40-10:55 AM – U17 Playoff: Ratu Sukuna Memorial School vs. NSS
– 11:00-11:55 AM – U16 Raluve Final: Lomaivuna High School vs. Ratu Latianara College
– 12:10-1:05 PM – U16 Final: SGS vs. MBHS
– 1:15-2:30 PM – U19 Playoff: Naitasiri Secondary School vs. AOG High School
– 2:35-3:50 PM – U17 Final: MBHS vs. SGS
The atmosphere is set to be electric as fans gather to support their teams, and it’s a wonderful reminder of the community spirit that youth sports can foster. Such events not only celebrate athletic prowess but also promote camaraderie and sportsmanship among school rivalries.
Leave a comment