Namosi Win Combat In Wet
Jack’s Nadi will need to put together their best performance in the last round of the Skipper Cup Premiership next month against Suva.
The men from the jetset town suffered in heavy underfoot going down 15-22 to Namosi at Thomson Park, Navua yesterday.
They have ample time to prepare since the competition resumes in three weeks after the last Test international against Tonga at Churchill Park, Lautoka on June 23.
Close to the drop zone with 12 points and sixth on the points table, they need to up the ante when they host the capital side at Prince Charles Park.
What happened: Despite coach Savenaca Aria calling the shots from the sideline, Namosi made a statement from start to finish as they dominated combat in the wet.
It was obvious that whoever dominate the battle upfront win the game due to the wet and slippery state of the park.
Led by former national rugby rep Asaeli Boko, Namosi dominated the close exchanges leaving Nadi reeling as they scored two tries in the first half to lead 12-3 at halftime.
The first was scored by wing Veramu Dikidikilati after constant pounding for the tryline by the forwards.
The second was scored by centre Alivoso Rauto who finished off the move in the corner after the forwards laid the platform in sucking in the defence thus creating space out wide.
Nadi’s pivot Sela Toga drew first blood kicking a penalty in the 9th minute.
Namosi’s prop Alivereti Rabukawaqa scored the third try to extend the lead 19-3.
Toga scored Nadi’s first try but missed the conversion, 19-8.
Two yellow cards to Rauto and Levani Kurumudu allowed Nadi to score their second try to Vatiliai Tora which was converted by Toga, 19-15.
But former national 7s reps Joji Raqamate pushed Namosi further ahead with a penalty, 22-15.
Namosi will play Navosa in the last round and could make the top four after losing the first three games.
Comments:
Namosi assistant coach Jo Savou;
We survived in the wet, happy with the win. We aim to be in the top three after the last round.
Nadi coach Savenaca Aria;
Need to up our game against Suva so we need to prepare well.”
nThe Under-20 and women games were cancelled due to the wet park as ruled by match commissioner Penisoni Waki.
Edited by Leone Cabenatabua
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