The Lakapi Samoa championship has reached the business end of proceedings as the teams who have qualified for the finals line up for the ultimate showdown at the Apia Park.

It has a been brutal contest for all the teams involved, with no quarters given or taken. Both the men and women's contest have been extremely entertaining, breathing new life into domestic rugby.

The arrival of Manu Samoa Head Coach, Mapusua Seilala Mapusua, who has been an interested spectator at the games, has added another dimension. With Mapusua's emphasis on developing local talents with the hope of elevating them to the Manu Samoa and further professional rugby honours, there is a lot to play for.

And that's what it has been.

Unfortunately, there can only be two teams in the final.

In the women's division, Seiuli Salesa Seiuli, the Lakapi Samoa Events, and Competitions Manager, said they are expecting an exciting contest.

"Taema defeated a spirited Nafanua team 21-7. Taema's victory propels them to the top of the Women's Standings and into the final to face Tilafaiga," he said.

For the men's final, it will be a replay of an earlier clash between Manono and Apolima. 

"Upolu defeated Manono in a thrilling nail biter, with Upolu clinching victory at the death via super boot Malu Falaniko," Seiuli said. 

"But unfortunately for Upolu they did not score enough tries to secure a bonus-point victory, as Manono managed to score two bonus points in the loss which was enough to edge them ahead of Upolu by one point."

Manono will now have the chance to meet again with Apolima and to see who will take the title. 

Upolu will face Savaii for the 3rd and 4th place match.

The finals for the Samoa Invest Lakapi Championship is set to kick off this Friday at Apia Park Stadium.