Fijians Shine In NPC Opener In New Zealand

Taranaki beat Counties Manukau 37-29 in their New Zealand National Provincial Championship opener at Yarrow Stadium in New Plymouth on Friday night.

It was all thanks to Taranaki’s Fijian connection as wingers Kini Naholo, Jacob Ratumaitavuki- Kneepken and super sub Vereniki Tikoisolomone scored a try each in the win. Counties Manukau also fielded Hoskins Sotutu at No.8 and winger Peniasi Malimali in their starting line-up.

In another thriller veteran Waisake Naholo, had a bad start for Otago as he suffered a leg injury and had to leave the field in the first half.

Tasman Mako raced away to a 27-15 win over Otago at Trafalgar Park, Nelson.

Mako fielded former Moana Pasifika pair of Timoci Tavatavanawai and Levi Aumua while Otago had Jona Nareki who put on an impressive performance in setting up a couple of tries.

Other NPC matches will be played today.

Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj