ARMY fought until the end to defend the 2025 Vodafone Ratu Sukuna Bowl women’s rugby title at Subrail Park in Labasa today.
Army beat Police 25-23 thanks to a successful penalty by Mereseini Naidu right on the 80th minute mark.
It was a tough sea-saw encounter from the start with both teams declaring their intensions early and Army drew first blood with a try to Mariana Tokalau to lead 5-0.
Police responded minutes later with a penalty and a try to lead 10-5 at halftime.
Police, boasting the services of Fijiana reps Evivi Senikarivi and Sulita Waisega, started with a bang in the second try as Asenaca Diranuve ran away for a try to extend their lead 17-5.
Army dominated the next phases of play and had plenty of possession which they capitalised on with tries to Fijiana flanker Nunia Daunimoala and former Adi Cakobau School sprinter Donitila Naita, levelling the scores at 17-all.
Not long after, Police responded with a penalty to reclaim the narrow 20-17 lead but Army answered in spectacular fashion with a try to Naidu, closing in the scores at 22-20.
Police pulled the lead back with another penalty but they only had themselves to blame after Alisi Gale was given the marching orders for a dangerous tackle.
Army took the opportunity at the dying minutes to have a shot at goal and Naidu didn’t miss as she sent the ball through the sticks to retain their title.
