Wests Tigers' Jersey Flegg Cup team will make the trip to Fiji this afternoon as they prepare to face the Kaiviti Silktails in the final round of the regular season.
Match: Silktails v Wests Tigers
Round 26 -
home Team
Silktails
14th Position
away Team
Wests Tigers
7th Position
Venue: Churchill Park, Lautoka
The Wests Tigers U/21s side currently sits in eighth, and needs a win on Saturday (10:00 am AEST, 12:00 pm local time), as well as other results to fall their way, to sneak into a place in the competition’s Top 5.
This won’t be just any regular away trip though, as members of their opposition will greet the Wests Tigers team upon arrival for a ceremony and official welcome, before the two sides have a meal together post-match.
Wests Tigers coach Leon Latulipe expressed excitement at the team’s upcoming Fiji visit.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for us to go over there and have a look at what rugby league looks like in a different country,” Latulipe explained.
“It’ll offer a different perspective for our players in regards to where they come from and what they’ve grown up with.
“It’ll be an important trip to us and the staff are also quite excited about going over there too.”
One of these staff members is team manager Daisy Zakarija, who is of Fijian descent.
Zakarija discussed how the Fijian culture will provide a positive influence on all making the trip.
“Experiencing an international culture together strengthens team bonds by creating shared memories and overcoming challenges,” said Zakarija.
“As a Fijian-Australian, travelling to Fiji and learning about its culture will benefit the team by fostering a deeper appreciation of Fijian values, which are known for its warmth and strong community ties.”
Sharing a meal together helps to humanise the competition, which promotes a positive and sportsmanlike atmosphere.
Daisy Zakarija
These two teams faced off in Round 1 this season, with Wests Tigers coming away with a 38-20 victory on that occasion.
The visitors will send a strong side over for the match, with the likes of Justin Matamua, Brandon Tumeth and Chris Faagutu all set to feature.
The Silktails are proudly supported by the Australian Government through PacificAus Sports. PacificAus Sports creates opportunities for Australian and Pacific athletes to learn, train, play, and grow together.
