Nadi hoist Dawai Trophy

The Ilai Derenalagicoached Jack’s Nadi rugby side won the inaugural Orisi Dawai Memorial Trophy yesterday. The Jetsetters beat Ram Sami sponsored Suva side 22-17 at Prince Charles Park, Nadi.

The trophy, sponsored by Tappoo, will be competed annually between the two teams.

The trophy is named after dual Fijian international Orisi Dawai from Narewa, Nadi,

Dawai played centre for the Flying Fijians and took part in athletics at the 1950 Empire Games at Auckland, New Zealand.

What happened: Nadi took the lead with a try from number eight Naulia Dawai which was converted by first five-eight, Sela Toga, 7-0.

About 15 minutes later fullback Navitalai Tuilawa scored in the corner as Nadi led 12-0.

Halftime: Nadi 12-0 Suva The visitors came back stronger in the second spell and lock forward Sorovakatini Tuifagalele scored a try.

First five- eight Enele

Malele kicked the conversion, 12-7.

Fullback Setareki Raoba scored in the corner to level the score 12-12.

A few minutes later winger Jiutasa Nave raced 20 metres beating two Suva defenders to score a try in the corner to extend their lead 17-12.

Tempers flared and referee Waisea Cakau flashed a red card to Dawai for unprofessional play.

Nadi centre Tevita Mociu scored in the corner, 22-12. Suva hit back with Raoba scoring a double. Comments: Nadi captain Turuva Lumelume said: “We thank the Suva team for giving us the edge.

“It was a learning experience for us moving forward as we prepare to face Rewa in the Farebrother-Sullivan Trophy challenge.”

Suva captain James Brown said: “I want to thank the champion side Nadi for the match.

“We have learnt learn from here.” a lot to