SUVA kicked off their 2024 Skipper Cup campaign in dominant fashion with a 35-13 bonus-point win over Vinod Patel Ba at the newly redeveloped Four R Stadium (formerly Govind Park) yesterday.
It was a historic and emotional day for the Ba rugby faithful, as fans returned to the iconic venue after nearly nine years.
Thousands queued up at the gates and packed the stadium to witness the much-anticipated clash between two of Fiji’s rugby giants.
Suva wasted no time making their presence felt. Winger Onisimo Nawalu crossed the try line just two minutes into the game, although the conversion was unsuccessful.
Fly-half Everoni Korobiau then converted Sevuloni Lotu’s try in the 12th minute to extend Suva’s lead.
Ba responded with a penalty from scrumhalf William Ryland in the 14th minute, but a foul soon after saw Korobiau slot in another three points for Suva.
Despite several attacking opportunities, Ba struggled to capitalise. Ryland added another penalty just before halftime, but Suva still led 15-6 at the break.
Suva continued their momentum into the second half. Lock Nadidi Tagiselala powered over in the 42nd minute, though the conversion missed.
Korobiau later nailed his second penalty to stretch the visitors’ lead.
Ba briefly reignited hopes of a comeback when No.8 Paula Ralulu crashed over in the 61st minute, and Ryland added the extras.
However, Suva’s speed and strength proved too much. Isikeli Lumelume scored their fourth try in the 66th minute, converted by Korobiau, and Lutu sealed the win with a fifth try to close out the match 35-13.
Suva coach Solomoni Nute said he was pleased with the team’s preparation and result.
“We were preparing well for this match against Ba. Happy to get this bonus point.
“We knew the vanua o Ba would come out in numbers and support their team. I told the boys to put up a brave fight and work hard. Our next focus will be on improving continuity against Lautoka,” Nute said.
