Veremalua Vugakoto dedicated their 28-10 win over Tailevu to those who suffered during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Western Division and cancer survivors.

The victorious Jack’s Nadi rugby captain made the comment after the Jets absorbed the pressure in the first half and unleashed their firepower with the forwards leading the charge in the second half.

The last round of the Skipper Cup Premiership/ Farebrother Sullivan Trophy challenge was witnessed by a record 12,000 fans.

An elated Vugakoto said: “We dedicate the win to the people of Nadi as it has been really hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and also to the cancer survivors.”

He added the team did break the hearts of many Tailevu fans that came in a great number with over 20 busloads.

“The message to the boys was to play their hearts out,” he said.

“I thank the boys for sticking to the plan. We thank the fans for being with us despite us not making it to the top four of Skipper Cup.

“We will celebrate Christmas and New Year in Nadi with the silverwarwe,” he said.

What happened: The visitors dominated play in the first 10 minutes of play.

In the 15th minute Tailevu was penalised and first five-eighth Vatemo Ravouvou broke the deadlock with a penalty to lead 3-0.

Three minutes later, the confident Tailevu outfit stole the lead with a try to loose-man Raduva Saumaki.

In the 24th minute Tailevu flanker Timoci Vunimoku was sin-binned for unprofessional play.

Then the Jetsetters forward pack took control of the match, bursting through the Tailevu defence line.

The host answered with a try from a set piece to winger Vilikesa Driu on the corner.

Halftime: Nadi 8-5 Tailevu.

The Nadi forwards continued their ruthless attack to take command of the game in the second half.

The side set-up two brilliant tries to hardworking blindside flanker Jolame Luvevou in less than 10 minutes through powerful drives.

The side continued to work hard and was finally paid off with a try to veteran prop Ron Katonivere in the 67th minute and Samuela Saqiwa who came off the bench to score the team’s final try.

Tailevu had the last say in the match with a try to winger Viliame Kanatabua.

Comment: Tailevu captain Timoci Vunimoku said: “We thank Nadi for a tough game. We tried our best but they outplayed us.

“To our fans that came in huge numbers to witness this match, thank you for the support. We will come back stronger next year.”

Edited by Osea Bola

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