Elusive Navosa women’s rugby full-back Arieta Tanono scored five tries in their 34-5 win over Rewa in the Royal Tea Ranadi Cup final at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka, yesterday.

The 19-year-old had been scoring an average of four tries per match this season and sees rugby as a way out to earn a better life.

The Nabuyanitu, Noikoro, native looks after her mum and siblings since her dad is in prison.

Being the eldest of six siblings, she shoulders the responsibility of working in the farm to support them.

Tanono said although life was tough she managed to balance her time well.

“It is tough but life goes on,” she told SUNsports.

“I just engage myself in sports and hope it will take me to a better place.”

“I’ve been scoring four to five tries per game for the team. I just love running it refreshes my mind.”

The Navosa women’s side had an unbeaten run this season.

Navosa managed to break the deadlock with a try to winger Mereisi Naqoqo while Vatiseva Cavuru added the extras from the conversion in the 24th minute as they led 7-0 at halftime.

Navosa came strongly in the second spell and in the first minute, Tanono was able to score in the corner to extend their lead to 12-0.

Arieta Tanono

Eight minutes later, Tanono ran around the opposition to score under the post with the conversion from Cavuru making it 19-0.

Rewa halfback Lavenia Tama scored an unconverted try to close the gap to 19-5.

Then Tanono struck again as she used her running skills to score three more tries, which were not not converted for a 34-5 win.

“There will be one winner and one loser. We tried our best but we have learned a lot,” gracious Rewa captain Ema Vuki said.

Navosa walked away $7000 richer while Rewa bagged $3000 for their effort.

Both teams are promoted to next year’s ANZ Marama Championship while Lautoka and Naitaisiri are demoted.

Meanwhile, Yasawa fought from a 10-7 deficit to beat Macuata 24-17 in the Vodafone Vanua Championship final at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka, last night.

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