‘Dropped ball saved the day’
Adropped ball by the Nadi forwards ended their reign as the INKK Fiji Rugby Farebrother-Sullivan Trophy holders as they went down 22-15 to Naitasiri at Prince Charles Park, yesterday.
Naitasiri coach Ilaitia Tuisese was a relieved man after the tough encounter.
“Hats off to the boys and we have to congratulate them for the defence,” he said.
“We made it there and we had to play for each other.
“They (Nadi) wanted to come back strong and we defended our line. Luckily that ball in the Nadi hands slipped.”
What happened: Nadi were not that convincing despite taking an early 7-0 lead from a Napolioni Dawai try in the ninth minute and converted by Sela Toga.
The Highlanders took control as they dominated possession and territory.
They ran in three tries unconverted tries to centre Maleli Lesavua, flanker Necani Nawaqatabu and captain, Sireli Kaloucava. Toga narrowed the deficit with a penalty at the end of the first half. Halftime; Nadi 10-15 Naitasiri. Nadi started the second spell with a try to livewire hooker Maikeli Sivo in the 51st minute with Toga’s conversion missing. Flanker Tomasi Naduki came off the bench and broke the deadlock with an unconverted try in the 63rd minutes with full-back Kini Douglas adding the two points. Leading 15-22, Nadi came out firing but the Naitasiri defence stood tall.
Comment: Nadi Rugby Union treasurer Jeff Tamata said: “As it was expected the match was decided right on the final whistle.
“We were unfortunate that we did not take our chances.
“We are not out but we still have a chance to challenge in the second round.”
All teams will take a rest next week due to the Fiji Rugby Union special general meeting.
Naitasiri first Cup defence will be against Namosi