The Tevita Delailomaloma-captained Lautoka rugby team played a game in the second spell to hold Nadroga 20-20 in an epic Skipper Cup battle at Nadovu Park, Lautoka yesterday.

What happened: Lautoka halfback Sireli Lewalau kicked a penalty in the 5th minute to lead 3-0.

Nadroga fullback Tikilaci Vuibau replied in the 12th minute.

In the 18th minute Aporosa Duwai scored a try.

In the 28th minute Maikeli Toga scored and converted by Vuibau.

Lawelau closed the gap with his penalty in the 38 th minute.

Halftime: Lautoka 6 – 15Nadroga

In the second spell Nadroga regrouped as a result Vuibau scoring a try in the corner.

In the 49 minute locks Timoci Mikaele scored a try.

In the 55th minute hooker Maikeli Sivo barged his way over for a try which was converted by Lewalau.

Star turn: Lautoka half back Sireli Lewalau was crucial at pivot position.

Big play: Nadroga fullback Tikilaci Vuibau was on fire in registering 11 points including a try after a handful of assists

Comments: Lautoka manager Timoci Namuira said, “It is a good result for us since Nadroga is a champion side and to hold them is an achievement.

“We controlled the tempo and did stick to our game plan with counter ruck which was a great weapon.”

Nadroga manager Ilavi Kato said, “We did not expect this game from Lautoka as our game was poor compared to our win over Nadi last week. We missed four crucial penalties in the last 20 minutes.

“We had to work on penalty which is important.”

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