Nadi holds off Nadroga surge
Yasawa faces Macuata
NADI put on a defensive masterclass in front of their home fans as they defeated Nadroga 22-12 at Prince Charles Park yesterday.
Nadroga made a late surge, after they put all 12 points in the last quarter of the match, after yhalf Joeli Baleilevuka and Fijian Drua winger Taniela Rakuro scored two quick individual tries in the last 10 minutes.
The Jetsetters started the match with high intensity after winger Mosese Naura dotted over the line in the fourth minute of play.
Nadi yhalf Serupepeli Vularika slotted a penalty minutes later to extend their lead to 10-0.
Joseva Namisi extended Nadi’s lead to 15-0 at the break.
The Jetsetters defence stood with everything that was thrown at them from the Stallions attack, as they could not penetrate their way to Nadi’s try line even after numerous attempts.
Nadi continued with their ne form from the rst half after anker Jolame Luvevou’s try further extended their lead.
The Stallions, determined to put points on the board, scored two late tries, however, it was not enough for a comeback win.
Nadi coach Ilaitia Momo Seru said the boys prepared well and they had a game plan to counter Nadroga.
“The boys did what they were told to as we studied Nadroga’s style of play in the last couple of games. Nadroga is a champion team but our boys did enough.”
He also acknowledged the fans for the support.
Nadi captain Ratu Napoioni Dawai said the boys put in the hard yards, especially after their loss to Tailevu last week.
“The boys worked really hard this week as we knew Nadroga would be a tough team.”
YASAWA team will be focusing on improving their structure play as they face Macuata in round eight of the Skipper Cup competition at Churchill Park, Lautoka today.
The team secured a 1711 victory over Lautoka in the previous round and is eager to continue their winning momentum.
Coach Taione Ratu mentioned that the team’s preparation has been progressing well, with a focus on addressing.
“The preparation has been really going well, we have been working on our weaknesses from the game against Lautoka, and posing up some of our strength,” said Ratu.
“We also been working on structure play, which has been a key area of focus throughout the season, and the players have shown great adaptability and improvement in this aspect.”
Despite the tough challenge posed by the Macuata team, Ratu emphasized the importance of staying focused, working hard, and continuously improving.
“Macuata team is a tough team, they are not a team to underestimate, we just keep up with our work and keep getting better.
Yasawa boasts a young squad, with some players as young as 20-years-old, who have consistently proven their abilities and dedication in every match.
The team is calling on all Yasawa fans and supporters to come out in full force to show their support and create a vibrant atmosphere.