The Vodafone Fiji Bati side put on a clinical performance to upset the Papua New Guinea Kumuls 43-16 at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby last night.
With Maika Sivo and Kurt Donoghue both claiming a double, the visitors raced off the blocks after a slow start.
The Bati ran in seven tries to the Kumuls three and led 19-4 at halftime.
Bati head coach Wise Kativerata said his side was able to execute almost everything they had been working on throughout the week and couldn’t be prouder of his players’ performance.
“Very happy with the way the boys played today, and I saw a lot of improvements since our last game with the Cook Islands last weekend,” he said.
“I’m also happy with the way our younger players played today, they stepped up to the occasion and were able to go out on the field and deliver.”
Meanwhile, skipper and Melbourne Storm forward Tui Kamikamica said their win against the Kumuls was no easy feat and praised his side for their efforts.
“It’s never easy playing the Kumuls, let alone on their home ground.
“So, hats off to the boys for giving their all tonight,” Kamikamica said.
“Coming out tonight, the boys wanted to go out and prove themselves after coming from a close win against Cook Islands last weekend. Kamikamica is expecting an even tougher battle when they face the Kumuls again this weekend.
“We are expecting an even tougher game against them next week, especially coming from a loss so they will be looking for their revenge.”
Fiji 43 – Tries: Kurt Donoghoe 12′, Tui Kamikamica 17′, Donoghoe 32′, Maika Sivo 46′, Sivo 48′, Caleb Navale 55′, Jason Qareqare 64′; Conversions: Brandon Wakeham (6); Penalty: Wakeham (1); Drop goal: Wakeham (1). PNG 16 – Tries: Alex Johnston 2′, Benji Kot 61′, Epel Kapinias 72′; Conversions: Rhyse Martin (2).
