It was a big day of rugby at Lawaqa Park yesterday as Kadavu and the New World IGA Ba Women’s side sealed their places in the semi-finals of their respective competitions.
Kadavu edged Tavua 30-29 in a nail-biting Vodafone Vanua Cup quarter-final.
The teams were locked 10-all at halftime after tries from Samuela Nagatalevu for Kadavu and Seveci Tora for Tavua.
The second half turned into a seesaw battle, with Kadavu pulling ahead through Josefa Baleiloa and Mikawele Tiwa, while Savenaca Durusolo kicked accurately.
Tavua replied with tries from Vetero Ramatau, Semi Ralulu, and Naibuka Qarau, but Kadavu held on.
Kadavu coach Jo Bola praised his players’ composure.
“The main message to the team was to maintain discipline and stick to our game plans. We will now build for our semi-final,” Bola said.
Tavua manager Apakuki Tuitavua thanked his players but condemned the actions of Tavua coaches who confronted match officials.
“Thank God for the game today (yesterday). The boys played their hearts out against Kadavu. But I was not happy with what the Tavua coaches did and I’m not supportive of their actions. We are trying to move rugby forward and we don’t tolerate this behaviour. The referee’s decision is final,” he said.
In the women’s Royal Tea Ranadi Cup, defending champions Ba thrashed Nukuloa 102-15.
Ba captain Tuliana Ragadi said, “First of all, I want to thank God, our sponsors New World, and all the fans and supporters of Ba Women, it was all worth it.”
Ba now face Rewa, while Tavua meets Macuata in the other Ranadi Cup semi-final.
