Naqiri dedicates win to supporters

Naitasiri captain Jone Naiqri dedicated double-header clash win to their province and its ardent rugby supporters.

The hill men ended FMF Suva’s unbeaten run with a last minute penalty to win, 27-25 at Naluwai grounds, Naitasiri.

Naitasiri was backed by their home crowd who stormed into the field after referee Tevita Rokovereni blew the final whistle to celebrate their victory and retaining the INKK Farebrother trophy. 

“We thank Suva for a hard fought match,” Naqiri said following the win. 

“This win is for the vanua and people of Naitasiri in Fiji and abroad who have contributed in any way to this team.

“Also to our fans, families and supporters – thank you for being here in numbers.” 

Naqiri also acknowledged their sponsors, team members and coaching management. 

The Highlanders side was boosted with former French international Virimi Vakatawa who played at second five eight while Fiji Drua’s Motikiai Murray was at number eight. 

Suva had Drua duo, hooker Mesulame Dolokoto and Isoa Tuwai along with the Fiji sevens trio Terio Tamani, Tira Welagi and Sakiusa Siqila.

Suva led 11-7 at half time before they left with 14-men in the start of the second half when their lock was shown a red card. 

Naitasiri scored two consecutive tries and kicked a penalty at the start of the second half and took the lead, 24-11, before the capital city scored another two converted tries and led 25-24 a minute before full time. Suva was in possession in the dying seconds before Rokovereni awarded another penalty which was booted by Etonia Rokotuisawa which sealed the victory for the hosts. 

Naitasiri will travel to Ba this Saturday while Suva will host Nadi. 

ROUND 8 results:

Senior: Lautoka 25-17 Tailevu, Macuata 31-27 Malolo, Ba 31-26 Vatukoula, Nadroga 43-25 Nadi, Naitasiri 27-25 Suva.

U20: Lautoka 8-18 Tailevu, MAcuata 18-14 Malolo, Ba 17-16 Vatukoula, Nadroga 17-22 Nadi, Naitasiri 19-7 Suva.