The Esala Nauga-coached BLK Nadroga side survived a tough RC Manubhai Suva onslaught in their fourth defence of the HFC Farebrother Trophy yesterday.

The Stallions retained the HFC Farebrother Trophy, 35-23 at the Prince Charles Park in Nadi.

What happened:

The capital Suva started the match strongly as fullback Sikeli Vuruna scored the first try of the match within the first five minutes.

Nadroga fly-half Nemani Raiwalui kicked a penalty to close the gap 5-3.

Few minutes later winger Necani Wakaya brilliantly scored to increase Suva’s lead 10-3.

Raiwalui was again at his best, slotting in a penalty to close the gap 10-6.

In the 34th minute Suva number eight James Brown was sin-binned for repeated infringements by referee Samuela Tuidraki.

Nadroga capitalised on Suva’s mistakes and number eight Nemani Nagusa scored in the corner to make it 11-10 at the breather.

In the second half, Suva sent in their reinforcement with veteran Dale Tonawai and Waqabaca Kotobalavu in the mix.

Suva started with a penalty from Seru Vularika to extend their lead 13-11.

The Stallions came back strongly with tries to Avete Daveta and Ifereimi Tovilevu, converted by Raiwalui and Alivereti Veitokani to lead 28-13.

In the 60th minute, Vularika added another penalty before flanker Jone Navori scored under the posts for Veitokani to add a successful conversion 35-16.

Suva on the other hand played till the last minute and managed to score a consolation try through substitute prop Jerry Tokamalua that was converted by Vularika but it was too late.Star Turn: Serupepeli Vularika was named the player of the match.

Big plays: Nadroga backline led by Nemani Raiwalui.

Comments: Nadroga vice-captain Setefano Samoca said, “We played the full 80 minutes and we dedicated the win to all the former players who donned the Nadroga jumper. This was our toughest match as Suva played well and I’m happy that we have managed to defend the title. We are confident that we will defend our title this season again.”

Suva captain Alipate Mateivelia said: “We have lost the match to Nadroga, we started well but we have not lost our hope of winning the Farebrother next year. We will come back strongly next year.”

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