THE Army 15s rugby side preferred to train in secret prior to the Suva Rugby Union Escott Shield final against arch rival Navy on Saturday.
Media blackout was the response from the team management when Times Sport contacted the team yesterday.
Earlier this week, the former champions did not want any media interference at the team's camp. Army defeated Police in the semi-finals last weekend at Albert Park.
Army, led by the experience hands of Napolioni Naulia, is keeping a low profile against the defending champion.
The Delainabua-based team has lost most of its key players such as Manueli Gade, Leone Nakarawa, Mosese Vasuitoga and Tevita Rabukawaqa this season. Nakarawa, Vasuitoga and Rabukawaqa, who played for Tailevu in the Digicel Cup competition this season, were instrumental for the military men's Escott campaign last year.
"We are having a media blackout until Sunday," team manager Lieutenant Colonel Amani Suliano said.
Lt-Col Suliano said media organisations were not allowed to interview the team. Navy, laced with star players such as Waqabaca Kotobalavu, Manasa Saulo, Kaminieli Neiqisa, Isikeli Vuruna, Joeli Lotawa, Ilitomasi Nawalu and Flying Fijian Benedito Koroi, will be in full force for the Escott duel.
Navy team manager Joe Tuinidau said they were ready for the challenge.
He said it would not be an easy tussle for his boys but they would be ready for the physical clash. Navy edged Raiwaqa 10-3 in a brutal semi-final derby last weekend.
Navy defeated Army 34-24 in the final last year.