Hosts set for Vanua State of Origin 2

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Fiji National Rugby League acting chief executive officer Don Natabe. Picture: LUKE NACEI

The stage is set for the second Vanua State of Origin rugby league match at Prince Charles Park in Nadi on Friday.

According to the acting chief executive Officer of the Fiji National Rugby League, Don Natabe, the match is expected to be a fiery encounter.

“It’s an important part of the progress that we have made throughout the 28 years in re-introducing the Origin competition,” he said.

“It has truly brought out the best among the local-based rugby league players as witnessed in the first match of the series.

“This week we come to an exciting chapter of the Origin.

“I expect the second match to be full of fireworks because the Blues are just a win away from becoming champions whereas the Maroons will be hunting for a win to level the series. “It should be a great battle.”

The Origin pits the best players from the western region against their counterparts from the East to stake a claim on the inaugural Tanoa Trophy and is the most elite rugby league competition in the country.

“The first match was spectacular if you look at the on-field stats.

“There were zero on-field incidences although two cards were handed in the men’s game.

“The series provide a perfect platform for the local based players to put their hands up for selection in the Vodafone Fiji Bati squad for next year’s Rugby League World Cup.

“It’s definitely a step up from the domestic FNRL Vodafone Cup competition.”

Natabe has assured the rugby league fanatics of a lively and entertaining rugby league match and urged the patrons to flock in numbers at Prince Charles Park to provide the much-needed support to their respective Vanua teams.

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