The power of Tokouso forwards and speed of the Tabusoro backline will headline the Vodafone – Tri Nations 15 Championship finale this afternoon at Raemaru Park in Arorangi.

Defending champions Tokouso (Samoa/Tonga) face an uphill battle against a resurgent Tabusoro Fiji in the much anticipated decider.

Both teams defeated the Cook Islands Residents in their opening matches to set up today’s epic battle, starting at 4pm.

After a disappointing outing in the inaugural series last year where they lost both of their matches, Fiji looks a much better side this year.

In their opening match the George Fatafehi-coached side thumped the Residents 31-8.

The Fijians scored five tries to one in the victory built on the back of their speedy backline players with the bulk of their tries scored by them – including a barn-storming effort by their massive prop Bogitini Tuimereke, who was caught resting on the right wing.

Tabusoro’s speedy winger Peniasi Dakuwaqa scored two tries, including a solo effort, in the win.

Against Tokouso, coach Fatafehi said: “We are going into this match with underdog mentality, respecting that Tokouso are the defending champions.”

“For us it’s all about precision in certain areas leading to the execution. We are focusing on our execution. Decision-making around the park making sure the overall decision is on point is also key.”

The Fiji side has made one change in the forward pack bringing in hooker Sikeli Navunilagi, and in the backline, Tubuna Nasilivata, who was on standby against Cook Islands, will start on the left wing, and Pita Senibiaukula on the right wing.

Fresh from winning the domestic cricket title with the Arorangi Redbacks, Tomasi Wellington (Vanuarua) has been named on the bench alongside hard-hitting Colati Ravula, who also missed the opener.

The fastest man on the island, Peniasi “Flash” Dakuwaqa playing at fullback and hardworking number eight Mika Leawere will be their key players.

Tabusoro also have an impressive bench with the likes of Vaike Potoru, Seruvi Ralulu, Lai Rogorogoivalu and Teariki Matenga ready to provide reinforcement when needed.

Tokouso have also made a couple of changes after their hard-fought win against the Cook Islands 22-8 last week, where they lost a player to a red card in the 20^th minute.

Lualua Tua will start at loosehead prop, Fale Sooialo moves from flank to centre position, and fleet footed Samu Alafua heads further wide from centre to right wing.

Experienced forward Oswald Tunupopo has been named on the bench.

Players to watch out for are influential fullback Afeleti Iona and skilful first five eight Viiga Ruepena to guide their team around the park.

Tokouso coach Okesene “Ox” Moananu said they are wary of the Fijian side especially after their impressive start against the Cooks.

“I was impressed in their first outing; I thought they had a very good squad and they looked prepared and probably training for some time.

“They have a strong forward with big boys upfront and they have speed in the backline and also out wide,” Moananu said.

“We have to work hard to keep the ball away from them and when they have the ball, we really need to solidify our defence line to make sure we fill in all gaps and spaces and make the tackles.

“It’s going to be a tough battle against a strong Tabusoro side. We are looking forward to a good contest.”

Cook Islands Rugby Union development manager Ben Koteka says both teams’ backlines are stacked with pace and skills and this match is shaping up to be an exciting and high-scoring match.

“However, I feel it will be the team that dominates and sustains the battle up front in the forwards and keeps their discipline, they will be victorious.”

Darren Piri, the coach of Cook Islands Residents, said Tabusoro were unlucky last year and have made a good turnaround with a strong start in this year’s championship.

“It will come down to how the Fijian team utilises their flair … it’s going to be a physical affair. Best of luck to both teams, it will be a good match to watch.”

Local rugby commentator and former national rep George George said both teams have well-balanced squads and “the team that’s going to play smarter, not harder, should come away with the win”.

“This match will be a treat for the fans.”

Tabusoro’s Fatafehi thanked the Cook Islands Rugby Union, their sponsors and the tournament sponsor Vodafone “for providing this platform that enabled us in helping unite our communities through what we love most which is rugby”.

Entry fee is $3 for adults and free for children under 16.

Fixtures

1.45pm: Opening prayer by Arorangi Rugby Club, 2pm: U9/11/13 QUICK Rip Rugby (Boys & Girls) – All Clubs Bears, Eels, TKV Reds & Panthers, 4pm: Tabusoro – Fiji vs Tokouso – Samoa/Tonga. Prizegiving immediately after the match.

Teams

Tokouso – 1. Lualua Tua, 2. Faafoi Vaofusi, 3. Toto’a Tuaia, 4. Jeffrey Mangele, 5. Selafi Tovio, 6. Clive Nicholas, 7. Tautua Solomona, 8. Leki Vahefoou, 9. James Tofilau, 10. Viiga Ruepena, 11. John Penu, 12. Lokeni Perenise, 13. Fale Sooialo, 14. Samu Alafua, 15. Afeleti Iona, 16. Napa Tomokino, 17. Likena Vaimotou, 18. Apanui Heemi, 19. Oswald Tunupopo, 20. Enekupe Lelevaga, 21. Penilito Lio, 22. Isaia Aleni.           

Fiji Tabusoro – 1. Bogitini Tuimereke, 2. Sikeli Navunilagi, 3. Clarke Ngaau, 4. Simeli Ravula, 5. Kitione Natuwawa, 6. Laisa Ravula, 7. Jovilisi Naqitawa, 8. Mika Leawere, 9. Savenaca Buresova, 10. Kelepi Komaisavou, 11. Tubuna Nasilivata, 12. Joshua Koroi (capt), 13. Tevita Niusama, 14. Pita Senibiaukula, 15. Peni Dakuwaqa, 16. Vaike Potoru, 17. Seruvi Ralulu, 18. Lai Rogorogoivalu, 19. Tomasi Wellington, 20. Rusiate Lima, 21. Colati Ravula, 22. Teariki Matenga. Injury cover – Ratu Saurara.