Ikanivere ready for the challenge at top of the table clash

Suva hooker Tevita Ikanivere hopes to give another solid performance for the Blues when they meet Nadroga in the top of the table clash at ANZ Stadium on Saturday.

Ikanivere played a vital role in Suva’s 37-12 bonus point win over Namosi last weekend.

Ikanivere said “I’m playing alongside some of the experienced players who I use to see when I was in primary school.”

He added “Getting a chance to play with them is really a good experience.”

“I have been learning a lot of things for example how to perform when under pressure and I think it’s a good experience for the young players like us to be guided by senior members of the team” he said.

The 22-year who old featured for Nadi last season believes Nadroga will come with all guns blazing against them on Saturday.

He added “I’m sure Nadroga will lift the tempo of the game as we progress after the first whistle.”

Ikanivere said the Stallions proved too strong in the second half of the game in their clash earlier this season.

Nadroga forwards helped them to win the match and the Farebrother Trophy at Lawaqa Park despite Suva leading in the game for majority of the time.

Ikanivere said “Our forwards have been working hard on set pieces, scrum, line outs and a few other areas.”

He said “It was very hard to bring back the confidence in the players after we lost to Nadroga.

We want to take revenge and will try our best to beat them especially playing at our home ground.”

Nadroga on other hand will try and put up another perfect performance against Suva.

Nadroga captain Rupeni Nasiga said “Suva is a strong side and they will field their best team against us.”

He added “Both teams have 5 wins and 2 losses so fans can imagine how tough the game will be.”

Nasiga said “We are also polishing on a few areas and hope to rectify everything before the clash.

Nadroga sists on top of the Skipper Cup points table with 25 points, a point ahead of second placed Suva while Naitasiri is on third with 22 points and Namosi on fourth with 21.

In the round 8 matches at 3pm on Saturday, Suva meets Nadroga at ANZ Stadium, Tailevu plays Namosi at Ratu Cakobau Park and Lautoka faces Naitasiri at Churchill Park.

In an only game on Friday, Nadi battles it out against Yasawa 5pm at Prince Charles Park.