LAUTOKA will have to tighten its defence if they want to dethrone Farebrother-Sullivan trophy holders Fiji Bitter Suva when the two teams clash in the final challenge of the season at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori tomorrow.
That's the view of former Lautoka and Fiji fifteens centre Kaiava Salusalu.
Salusalu said Lautoka's defence would need to be tight throughout the entire game.
"After watching Fiji Bitter Suva's last two Farebrother games I believe Lautoka can surprise them but the key will be in their defence," Salusalu said.
"Fiji Bitter Suva has a very heavy and mobile pack and they have a very fast backline."
"We just need to stop them with a very good defence," the Yasawa man said yesterday.
Salusalu said Lautoka had been preparing well and everything looked good for a tough encounter in Nausori tomorrow.
"I've been attending our training sessions every afternoon and I believe the boys know how important this game is," Salusalu said.
"The coaches have touched on all areas of the game that needs to be worked on and I expect a very good game against the champions."
Salusalu said the inclusion of former national sevens coach and fitness guru Epeli Lagiloa had boosted the team's preparation.
Salusalu said the team had responded well to Lagiloa's training style which should bring out the best in the players when they face an experienced side like Suva.
"Playing for the Farebrother title is always something every rugby player in the country looks forward to every year and is this not different to the Lautoka players."
Salusalu says the maroons have a very good mix of young and experienced players in their training squad and he believes the coaches will select a good team.
"It will be a good game as both teams have been preparing well but Lautoka has always proven during the Farebrother challenge that they must not be taken lightly," Salusalu said.
The defending champions continue to train in Suva as they prepare for their second title defence after beating Nadroga two weeks ago.
The two teams are expected to name their starting fifteen today.
Lautoka last held the coveted silverware in 2003 after they upset holders Naitasiri 18-13 at Ratu Cakobau Park, the venue for tomorrow's clash.