The Macuata rugby team edged out hosts Tavua 20-15 in the final round of the Skipper Cup competition at Garvey Park yesterday. The win has seen the Northerners claim a spot in next year’s Top 8 competition.

What Happened:  Tavua started well and scored a try in the 20th minute to Ifereimi Duraga, which was converted to lead 7-0. They extended their lead to 10-0 in the 28th minute when Semisi Vauvau kicked in a drop goal. The visitors replied in the 36th minute through a penalty from Inoke Tuvatuva as they trailed 10-3 at halftime.

Macuata upped the tempo in the second half which had Tavua in trouble and in the 51st minute they scored a try to Rusiate Matasau to narrow the deficit 10-8. Not to be outdone Tavua hit back in the 57th minute when Cabrieli Ratu scored a try, which was not converted as they regained the lead 15-8. In the 63rd minute Macuata’s Apakuki Vuaviri scored a try and converted by Tuvatuva as they drew level 15-15. Then a yellow card was shown to Macuata’s Nemani Biu and Vauvau of Tavua. Macuata sealed their 20-15 win in the 75th minute when Vuaviri scored his second try.

Star Turn: Tavua were coming back into the game before Vuaviri struck with his two tries. This slowed the hosts down.

Comments: Macuata rugby coach Gabiriele Ramabuke:

“It was a team effort, not an individual effort. Our team played hard and we thank everyone for their support especially the vanua. We have achieved our target for this year which was to move to the top eight position from 14. We are happy with that.

“Our players have been together since the first season and we are glad they are together until today’s match.”

Tavua coach, Akariva Tabutaci: “We thank the Fiji Rugby Union for their continued support. My team played well at first but I don’t know what really happened to the boys as they slackened later on.”