Fijian Warriors Win Series After Torrid Samoan Challenge
The Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors won the Fiji Rugby Invitational Series after beating Manuma Samoa, 39-22, at the HFC Bank Stadium, Suva, this afternoon.
The Samoans were a much-improved side compared to their 60-10 loss last Saturday. They scored three tries while the Warriors dotted down six.
It was a slow start from both sides. The Warriors had their chance in the 11th minute when they were awarded a penalty but fullback Jack Volavola was way of target.
Five minutes later, Warriors captain Tevita Ikanivere scored the first try after a lineout blunder by Samoa and again Volavola missed the conversion for a 5-0 lead.
The Samoans replied immediately with a try to winger Fritz Rayasi with the conversion missing as they settled 5-5.
In the 20th minute a break by Taniela Rakuro saw him offload it to Apisalome Vota who flipped it over to winger Kini Vosailagi to score right on the corner.
The conversion missed as the Warriors led 10-5.
In the 28th minute Samoan lock Miracle Faiilagi scored their second try with the conversion going over for a 12-10 lead.
Prop Joseva Nasaroa drove over for the Warrior’s third try as they regained the lead 17-12 after Volavola added the extras from the conversion.
A minute away from half time Samoa’s first five eighth Tauvaga Kolena intercepted a loose pass to score their third try as they again took the lead 19-17.
Nasaroa added the bonus point from a forward drive from the five-metre line to score Warriors’ fourth try as they led 22-19 at halftime.
Samoa second five eighth Faletoi Peni booted over a penalty to level the scores 22-22 two minutes into the second half.
Ikanivere scored his second try to place the Warriors in the lead again, 29-22 after Volavola kicked over the conversion.
Prop Livai Natave was injured and replaced in the 73rd minute.
Replacement Isikeli Rabitu further extended Warriors lead with a penalty, 32-22.
From another forward rush replacement tighthead prop Immanuel Naciva scored Warriors sixth try with Rabitu converting for a 39-22 win.
Feedbacks: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj
