The Bainivualiku rugby team ended Qoi Bau’s reign on the Katonivere Shield when they came out 29-11 victors of their challenge match at All Saints Secondary School ground in Labasa last weekend.

What happened: Qoi Bau who had been suc­cessfully defending the title started strongly against Bainivualiku.

In the 20th minute they took a 3-0 lead from a penalty and later extended it to 6-0.

Their joy was short-lived when Bainivualiku struck with tries to Penisoni Valesomo and Josua Senidamanu with one conversion landed for a 12 –6 lead.

The match intensified as Qoi Bau ran in their first try in the 31st minute which was not con­verted to narrow the deficit to 12-11.

Bainivualiku held their composure and be­fore halftime they ran in a unconverted try to Emosi Rakari.

Halftime: Bau Qoi 11-17 Bainivualiku

It was all Bainivualiku in the second spell as they ran in to two tries for the 29-11 win.

Comments: Bainivualiku manager Captain Samuela Cikaitoga said: “It was a wonderful performance by the players and they were re­minded of our aim to win all the trophy and shield that are at stake in this year’s Macuata Rugby competition.”

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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