The practice of “matching” a story is an outdated one that still continues despite the fact we’re all now working with a medium that no longer requires it. If someone already reported the story, you’ve verified their story is correct, and you have nothing to move that story forward, write a brief and link to who did the legwork already. By all means, let your readers know about the story, lead them to it. Be a beacon for all news, not just your own. Then, move on and produce something of more value. Newsrooms are low on resources, apply those resources efficiently. Your 500 word re-write of the same article your “competitor,” as you call them, is un-necessary and a total waste of time.