A second half comeback by Suva after trailing Tailevu 16-12 at half-time in their Skipper Cup round 5 fixture saw them win 28-24 at the Suva Grammar School ground yesterday.
The match was an intense one for both teams, the capital city side having made an unconverted try and the visitors with six points earned from two successfully placed penalty kicks.
Suva’s forward pack had to hold their fort against Tailevu forwards packed with size and strength, however at the breather, Tailevu had already placed another two unconverted tries and the home team replied with another penalty kick in between the goalposts.
After the break, it was a series of penalty kicks, of varying degree that made up a part of the second half, accompanied by tough action unfolding on the field.
Suva returned onto the field with a renewed awareness of their mission to win and ensured they would earn the win for this round through a hard-fought second half contest against Tailevu.
Tailevu’s dance for dominion proved equally adamant through penalties awarded and conceded.
The match was Suva’s for the taking when Police fly-half Ponipate Tuberi shot the ball between the goalposts to get them the win in the dying minutes of the match.
Team coach Solomoni Nute said with competition now into round five, there was no room for slippages to occur.
“All the teams are prepared now; this is just the fifth round. All teams are not here just to participate,” Nute emphasised.
He added the team will head back to the drawing board to evaluate the mistakes made in yesterday’s clash ahead of their round six clash.
Suva faces Vatukoula this week, with the latter being host and Tailevu meanwhile, will face Nadroga who will host the men in green.
