HIGHLANDERS KEEP FAREBROTHER
It has been awhile but champagne rugby returns and was there for all to see at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori yesterday.
It was billed as the game of 2018 and indeed it lived up to expectations.
BLK Nadroga Stallions came prepared but failed to conquer a rejuvenated QAQA Naitasiri outfit who displayed an exemplary show of power, pace and precision in the 2617 victory.
Like an orchestra playing the right note, the Highlanders were tuned to the right key in an almost clinical display in front of the jampacked crowd dominated by the ‘Go Black Go’ partisan and vocal Naitasiri fans
Simple Rugby Key: Rinakama
Assisting the coaching staff, former Naitasiri mentor Reverend Joji Rinakama said they could have scored more.
“We aim to cut down mistakes and the boys almost executed it to perfection.
“We planned to play simple and not overdoing things. We could have scored more if the players stuck to phase play in the second half.”
Nadroga captain Rupeni Nasiga
“We came with a mission but fell short in the end as the Highlanders dominated and it was their day. We look forward to the new season.”
Solo Finau-FRU Senior Operation Officer
“It has been a long time and I’m fortunate to be among the thousands at Ratu Cakobau Park. Definitely the game of 2018.”
Former national rep Mesake Rasari
“Proud of my team, Highlanders back in business.”
The Frank Show
Naitasiri halfback Frank Lomani deserved the man of the match performance. He was in the thick of action and twice he had to be attended to. “Someone tried to eye-gouged me and was floored by a late hit in the second one.
“But I’m happy we played to plan and we stuck to it until the final whistle.”
He scored two tries and kicked two penalties.
What happened: The Stallions drew first blood with a try through Fiji Airways Flying Fijians hooker Ratunaisa Navuma, Naitasiri halfback Lomani replied with a try to draw level 5-5. Two more penalties extended the Highlanders lead 11-5 before Serremaia Naureure scored between the posts at halftime which was converted by Kini Douglas to put them 18-5 in front at halftime. Lomani scored his second try after continuous bombardment for the tryline by the forwards, 23-5. Nadroga scored two tries to centre Sakiusa Nakalevu and No.8 Sailosi Rabonaqica, 23-17.
But Lomani sealed the win a long range penalty, 26-17.