Police Blues dominate Nawaka 7s

Speedster Manasa Natuituba led Police Blues to a 25-7 win over six-man Yaro Chiefs in the men’s final of the 39th Fiji Bitter Nawaka 7s tournament at King Charles Park, Nadi, last Saturday.

The Saioko, Nakorotubu, Ra native was instrumental in the win and was named the Men’s Player of the Tournament.

He said the team knew the threat posed by their opponents and they focused on their discipline.

“We were in camp for two weeks but little did we know we would lift the trophy,” Natuituba said.

“We had two days of quality rugby in Nadi. Other teams also put up a good show— that is what sevens is about. We had to keep playing as a unit.”

Natuituba dedicated the win to his mother, the Fiji Police Force and his family.

Yaro Chiefs playmaker Emenoni Nasilasila was sent off for foul play.

The tournament’s Men’s Dream Team selections were: Niko Ratubuli (Heni Ivi), Viliame Rokovucago (Namara Bros), Vilimoni Muri (Waimanu), Viliame Lotawa (Navala), Kelemedi Saki (Nawaka) and Kitione Botitu (Qwalimare).

In the women’s final, Team Ezers defeated defending champions Lilian Amazons 22-21 in a close contest.

Ezers head coach Tuliana Ragadi said they had prepared well for the tournament.

Fiji Bitter Nawaka 7s women’s champions Team Ezers.

“We trained hard and did not ignore the lessons from our coach during training,” she said.

Ragadi added that the team applied what they learned over the two-day of competition.

“We did not underestimate any team. Our club has only been running for three years and we also have some new players.”

Ragadi thanked the Lilian Amazons side for a strong match.

“In rugby there will always be wins and losses. We also thank our supporters and families for their encouragement. We dedicate this win to them.”

In the Under-21 final, Aloha Taveuni defeated Serevi Select 10-5.