Poor set-piece play was costly for INKK Fiji Rugby Farebrother-Sullivan Trophy challengers Rewa as they were thrashed 33-15 by Naitasiri at the Naluwai ground, today.
The challengers failed to contain the mobile Naitasiri forwards and gave away easy penalties.

Speaking to SUNsports Naitasiri head coach ilaitia Tuisese said his side had to fight hard.

“We had a slow start and allowed Rewa to dictate the game,” he said.

“The visitors presented us with a lot of penalties so we had to make use of it. We were also pressured by a very good side who meant business but the boys were composed.

“There were a few indiscipline and yellow cards but we will address that later.”

What happened: Naitasiri attacked early and exploited the Rewa defence and were awarded a penalty in the fourth minute that was converted by Etonia Rokotuisawa for a 3-0 lead.

Rewa scored the first try through first five Saula Lavetia in the 25th minute to lead 5-3.

Naitasiri regained the lead through a Kaliova Mocetadra try in the 30th minute that was converted by Rokotuisawa for a 10-5 lead.

Naitasiri full-back josua Yavala was yellow-carded for foul play in the dying stages of the first half followed by Semisi Uluimoala.

Halftime: Naitasiri 10-5 Rewa.

Highlanders captain, Sireli Kaloucava scored a try in the 45th minute to extend the lead 13-5.

Naitasiri hooker Jone Naqiri was yellow carded for foul play in the 60th minute.

Rewa kicked a penalty to narrow the deficit 13-8 in the 65th minute.

Naitasiri increased their lead from a try to Esikia Macu in the 68th minute for a 18-6 lead.

Rewa scored a try through full-back Tomasi Mara in the 73rd minute with the conversation to close the deficit 20-15.

Naitasiri were awarded a penalty try in the dying stages of the game for a 25-12 lead.

Highlanders scored through winger Vatiliai Vosawale to take a 30-15 lead.

Douglas kicked over penalty kick for Naitasiri in the last minute to win 33-15.

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