The Turuva Lumelume captained- Jack’s Nadi side scored a 29-20 bonus point win over Tailevu in the Skipper Fiji Rugby Championship at Prince Charles Park, Nadi, yesterday.

Again a sell-out crowd, the visitors came down with the mission but Nadi stood the test. What happened: In the 14th minute, Nadi winger Anasa Namaqa scored the first try of the match.

In the 25th minute the visitors were penalised and full-back Semesa Muaidonu slotted the penalty for a 8-0 lead.

In the 30th minute, Tailevu second row Laisenia Manuqila was sin-binned for unprofessional play on Muaidonu.

A minute later Nadi flanker Jaoti Koroimataitini scored a try under the post and was converted by first five eight Ifereimi Mataiadrau to extend their lead to 15-0. Tailevu winger Osea Qamasea scored a try in the corner.

Halftime: Nadi 15-5 Tailevu.

Three minutes into the second half centre Adriu Naiyaga scored a try and converted by full-back Maika Baleinaloto to narrow the deficit to 15-12.

Five minutes later hooker Maikeli Sivo bulldozed his way to score under the post and the conversion came off the boots of centre Tevita Mociu 22-12.

Three minutes later Tailevu first five eight Alivereti Mocelutu scored in the corner to bring the scores to 22-17. Four minutes later Nadi were penalised and Tailevu’s Tevita Lagilagi came off the bench to convert the penalty as they came close 22-20.

Nadi pumped up their attack and Ilisoni Galala who came off the bench scored a try with the conversion from Mociu.
Comments: Nadi captain Lumelume said:

“We had to defend, especially our home game. We had been preparing well for them coming into this match. We don’t underestimate any team for that matter.”

Tailevu head coach Samisoni Bai said: “The message before the match was to focus on our decision making. Also, I think some of the decisions made by the referee need to be seen again in their system. But I am proud of the boys and our supporters coming all the way from Tailevu.”

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