Vinod Patel Ba kept their Skipper Cup top-eight hopes alive after a thrilling 31-26 victory over Vatukoula at Garvey Park, Tavua yesterday.
Both sides started strongly, displaying attacking intent from the opening whistle.
Ba’s dominant forward pack gave them the early advantage, resulting in tries to Epineri Goneva and Saimone Tagitagivalu. William Ryland added two conversions and a penalty.
Vatukoula replied through a try from Iliesa Amenatave, who also slotted two penalties, along with another try from Petero Sanele.
Ba held a narrow 17-16 lead at halftime.
The second half was packed with excitement as Ba maintained their momentum. They were awarded a penalty try early in the half, followed by a touchdown from Jordan Mamao, with Ryland converting. Vatukoula fought back with tries from Apisai Natavalave and Vilimoni Bainivalu but failed to convert both.
Despite a late surge from Vatukoula, Ba held firm to claim a close 31-26 win.
Ba Rugby director Filimoni Delasau was full of praise for his side’s effort.
“First of all, we thank God for the win, without Him this win is not possible. We will take the win; this was our short-term goal for this week.
“Hopefully, we prepare well for Naitasiri next week,” he said.
Looking ahead, Delasau called on fans to show their support when Ba hosts Naitasiri next Saturday.
“We want fans to come out in numbers. We almost beat Naitasiri last year, we were just a few metres short. We’re looking forward to hosting them next week,” he added.
Meanwhile, in the Under-20 grade, Fiji Pine Ba U20 edged Vatukoula 17-16.
