Weekend semifinals head to Suva as Deans and Weet-Bix Raluve reach the final push
The spotlight will fall on an under-18 showdown as the last match of this weekend’s Vodafone Deans and Weet-Bix Raluve semifinals pits Ratu Kadavulevu School against Suva Grammar School, with kickoff at 5pm at the HFC Bank Stadium.
Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union official Biu Colati explained that the late start was trimmed to 5pm after input from the games committee, which includes representatives from the Police and LTA, to keep the program on track. The schedule also features a packed day of semifinals across three venues in Suva.
The day’s action begins with an early morning slate:
– Stadium: The first U14 clash at 9am sees Queen Victoria School up against Lelean Memorial School.
– Buckhurst Park: The day opens with another U14 game, Suva Grammar School vs Marist Brothers High School.
Two matches will be staged at Bidesi Park:
– 10am: RKS U15 vs Suva Grammar School
– 11:30am: Nasinu Secondary School vs QVS (U19)
All matches at Buckhurst Park and the Stadium will be broadcast live on FBC Sports and FBC 2, with overseas viewers able to watch the action for $59FJD.
Centralizing the semifinals in Suva, with additional fixtures at Buckhurst Park and Bidesi Ground, is designed to streamline logistics, improve medical and ground management, and make it easier for families and supporters to follow multiple games. The arrangements are part of a broader effort to boost broadcast coverage and visibility for both the Deans and Raluve competitions, including more live telecasts across national channels.
Weather and ground updates will be monitored, with officials prepared to issue changes if conditions in Suva affect play. Fans are encouraged to check official channels for the latest ticketing and spectator guidelines and to arrive early to enjoy the day’s full slate of matches.
Commentary:
– The move to a Suva-centric schedule underscores a growing emphasis on broadcast accessibility and fan engagement for school rugby.
– The U18 clash between RKS and SGS is a marquee matchup in a day that also features key U14, U15, and U19 games, offering a comprehensive showcase of Fiji’s secondary school rugby talent.
Summary in brief:
– U18 Deans and Raluve semifinals culminate with RKS vs SGS at 5pm, HFC Bank Stadium.
– Early games spread across Stadium, Buckhurst Park, and Bidesi Ground, with live TV coverage.
– Centralization aims to improve logistics and broadcast reach, with weather updates to follow. Positive momentum for school rugby and development in Fiji’s youth programs.
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