The Lautoka netball team will have to be in top gear to maintain its lead in the western league of the MH netball series on Saturday.

This weekend’s in the west will be a tug of war between top contenders Nadi and Vatukoula while Lautoka will face the wrath of Nadroga as the highlight of the round robin fixture.

Lautoka’s campaign started on a low note after losing their title to Suva in the season opener but the likes of goal shooter Sulueti Taivalu and Aliti Seru is expected to bring back the glamour.

Besides their build-up for the big showdown, Lautoka netball coach Taina Rabitu is optimistic that her squad will be out to make amends.

“We started the season with an objective to retain our title but things didn’t go our way during the opening knock out. Now our preparation is another step higher and it’s hard to battle with other teams as we share the same intention of winning,” Rabitu said.

The former national rep has also roped in seasonal campaigners Taina Nadiri, Wainikiti Nateru, Litia Vosailagi and Lupe Cakau.

Nadi being seeded second best in the west will have the service of former Lautoka rep Miriama Bole and Talei Tabuyaqona in a bid to take down the determined Vatukoula side.

“The minor teams are coming out strong and they’re giving us a good run. We need to field to best available players because the competition will be tough. I’m banking on the experienced players to lead the side.”

In other matches, Saivou takes on Baravi while Ba faces Lautoka II.

Netball Fiji secretary Tupou Lemeki has confirmed that the NF council will have their meeting in Lautoka this Saturday to coincide with the western tour.

Fijilive

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