Nakarawa’s World Cup Aim On Track
Veteran lock Leone Nakarawa’s mission to win a spot in next year’s Flying Fijians squad for the Rugby World Cup is on track after a winning debut for Castres in the French Top 14 competition last Saturday.
Nakarawa started at lock with Vilimoni Botitu, Adrea Cocagi and Filipo Nakosi among the backs in their 30-20 win over Stade Francais.
The centre partnership of Botitu and Cocagi did wonders as they scored a try each with Nakosi assisting.
Flanker Josua Raisuqe came in as a substitute and played well along with Stade Francais wing turned centre Sefa Naivalu.
Newly promoted, Bayonne, created the upset of the weekend when they beat Racing 31-25.
Still reeling from the shock retirement of Virimi Vakatawa, Racing struggled to keep up with Bayonne.
Impressive for Bayonne was another Fijian centre partnership of Eneriko Buliruarua at second five eight and Sireli Maqala at centre.
Flying Fijians No.8 Kitione Kamikamica started for Racing along with rookie Inia Tabuavou at centre while Ben Volavola came in as a replacement.
In a scrappy affair Brive escaped with a 17-6 win over USA Perpignan.
Lanky Flying Fijian lock Tevita Ratuva copped a yellow card in the 65th minute while fullback Seta Tuicuvu was moved to wing.
Former Fijian Bati rugby league back Brayden Wiliame was at centre for Perpignan while Alivereti Duguivalu was on the wing.
Fijian born- France winger Alivereti Raka scored two tries for Clermont on their way to a 33-24 win over Pau who had veteran Jale Vatubua at second five eight.
La Rochelle without veteran utility player Levani Botia edged Lyon 23-21 in a thriller.
Lyon fielded Flying Fijian lock Temo Mayanavanua and Noa Nakaitaci on the wing.
Gallagher Premiership
Burly Flying Fijian No.8 Albert Tuisue came off the bench to make his debut for Gloucester as they beat Wasps 27-21 while hooker Sam Matavesi’s Northampton Saints suffered a 29-22 loss to Sale Sharks.
Also making his debut for London Irish was veteran lock Api Ratuniyarawa as they romped to a 45-14 win over Worcester.
Former Flying fullback Kini Murimurivalu and elusive second five eight Phil Cokanasiga played for Leicester Tigers in their 24-20 loss to Exter Chiefs.
Centre George Wacokecoke came in as a sub for Newcastle Falcons but they also went down 40-31 to Harlequins.
Feedback : leonec@fijisun.com.fj
