The Army Green rugby side have finally laid their hands on the R.C. Manubhai Suva Rugby Union’s Escott Shield after they beat DHL Raiwaqa 25-10 in the final at Albert Park, Suva yesterday.

The win saw them walk away with $3000 while Raiwaqa received $1500.

What happened: Army Green who looked more composed dominated the first half as they were aggressive in the set pieces and also at the break down areas as well.

Raiwaqa were on the defensive end most of the time.

The boys from Delainabua stuck to their game plan and scored the first try through Aminiasi Kuruinovo and minutes later they followed it up with a Lepani Kuruimudu try which was converted by Jolame Davui.

Raiwaqa with less than 10 minutes remaining before half time put up another brave performance and scored the first try through openside flanker Ben Johnson as they trailed 12-5 at the breather.

Army Green lifted the momentum in the second half as they continued their dominance.

This paid dividend when halfback Noa Lovia scored their third try.  Raiwaqa had themselves to blame as their poor tackling allowed Army Green to score their fourth try through Inia Tukere and Davui was later successful with a penalty.

Raiwaqa kept on fighting back and scored their second try through Apisai Vatubuli, but Army Green controlled the game well and finished it off with a 25-10 win at full time.

Big play: Army Green kept to their game plan proving themselves ruthless in defence and were confident during attack as they controlled their possession well.

Despite having young players in the team, the soldiers maintained their game plan through the match.

Star turn: Raiwaqa put on a gutsy performance and kept fighting back right up to the final whistle.

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Army Green coach Usaia Mataki was impressed with the outcome.

“We have new players in the team and I’m  happy with the result they have shown.

“The boys stuck to the game plan and put on a good game. We also thank Raiwaqa for the good game.”

Raiwaqa team manager Salesi Tuberi believes his players did their best.

“We are grateful to reach the final. Army Green have again proved themselves to be champions and we thank them for a good game and also we thank the Raiwaqa community for their support.”

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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