Rabbitohs suffer shock loss 16 - 12

Anew champion will be crowned in the 2020 Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Premiership this year. This was after defending Ravoravo Rabbitohs suffered a shock 16-12 loss to Coastline Roos during the quarterfinal at Churchill Park, Lautoka on Saturday.

Rabbitohs team manager Sitiveni Vuniyayawa said they did not agree with the referee’s decision in not awarding them a try in the last minute of play.

“In our last surge we scored a clear try. Earlier on the sending off of one our players but other than that we feel it was a great game,” he said.

“Coastline did play well and we also took some wrong option they put under pressure as well.”

What happened: Simione Qiokata opened Roos account with a try in the 7th minute, which was converted by Sunia Naruma, 6-0.

In the 23rd minute Rabbitohs scored a try to Samuela Daveta and Dan Marley converted to level the scores at 6-6. Winger Ilai Nareki scored Roos second try as they took a 10-6 lead. Moments later Marley kicked over a penalty.

Halftime: Roos 10-8 Rabbitohs

Poor handling and indiscipline marred Rabbitohs play. In the 44th minute, Simon Wise was sin-binned for punching a player. He was followed by Nareki for a high tackle offence.

Then Aborosio Delaimoala was sent off for unprofessional play.

In the 64th minute Viliame Tunidau of the Roos scored their third try which was converted by Sunia Naruma to bring the scores to 16-8.

In the 71st minute Tomasi Ralulu powered over to score Rabbitohs second try with the conversion going wide.

Comments: Coastline Roos coach, Keni Nadaro said: “These are all young boys from the villages but I’ve been telling them for the past few weeks to focus on their weaknesses. “The main motive for the team this season was to put God first and to be dedicated in what they do.”

Other results Roos 16-12 Rabbitohs, Burenitu Cowboys 22-11 Namuaniwaqa Sea Eagles, Sabeto Roosters 14-20 Saru Dragons (tied 14-14 at fulltime and had to go to sudden death), Police Sharks 22-14 Nadera Panthers.