Skipper Cup : Performance Upsets Tuisese
Naitasiri head coach Ilaitia Tuisese Jnr was disappointed with the team’s discipline despite the 27-19 win over Rewa in the second round of the Skipper Cup Premiership at Ratu Cakobau Park yesterday.
“We had three yellow cards, and we need to work on our discipline it’s a big challenge for us. Rewa was a well-coached team, they were fit,”he said.
“We have to go back and work on our discipline before we play Nadi in the third round.”
What happened; Despite the bonus win Naitasiri showed an indiscipline game throughout having three of its players sinned binned for foul plays.
In the first half prop Josua Qaduadua copped the first yellow card while Kini Douglas and locks Sitiveni Kurivatu carded in the second half.
Rewa made a strong start as they were able to counter the experienced Naitasirii team scoring their opening try through Seru Vaniqi in the 16th minute which was converted by fullback Apenisa Deve.
Naitasiri regrouped and scored their opening try through winger Timoci Sinate.
They continued to dominate as Frank Lomani led the attack allowing them to score their second try through Sinate, converted by Douglas.
They started to display scrappy play in the last quarter of the first half as Rewa No. 8 Josaia Tokarua and Naitasiri prop Josua Qaduadua sinned binned for foul play.
Halftime: Naitasiri 12-7Rewa
Rewa gained momentum at the restart scoring their second try through Orisi Sirikoso.
Naitasiri lifted intensity strengthened their attacking structure and defence which put Rewa under pressure. This allowed Lomani to kick his first penalty.
The hard work of Naitasiri backline saw Sinate scoring his third try with Douglas kicking the conversion.
Naitasiri continues to enjoy possession with the gutsy performances from their new look forward pack which saw former Ba rugby lock forward Sitiveni Kurivitu diving in for their fourth try.
Rewa continues to fight on in the last 80 minutes which awarded themselves a penalty try after Naitasiri was penalized for dangerous tackle.
Big Play: Despite their loss Rewa backline deserves to be commended with their effort.
Comment: Rewa head coach Ro Alifereti Doviverata said: “Congratulations to Naitasiri.”
Edited by Osea Bola
Feedback: anasilinir@fijisun.com.fj
