The Army FTG team secured a thrilling 25-24 victory over a determined Mokani side yesterday at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori, booking their place in the Tailevu Rugby Club final next week.
Army head coach Atunaisa Vodovodo acknowledged the tough challenge his team faced, especially playing against Mokani in front of their home supporters.
“We treated this match as a final not a semi-final, during preparations I told the boys they have to come in 150 percent not 100 percent because Mokani has the backing of their supporter and to play till the last whistle,” Vodovodo said.
The match was tightly contested, with Army needing to score in the final 10 minutes to reclaim the lead.
Vodovodo spotted the Mokani forwards tiring in the second half and instructed his team to seize the opportunity, which led to the decisive try.
“The message to the forward was to keep the ball to themselves and not entertain any running rugby to match how Mokani played. And that’s how we scored those last tries during the game.” He explained.
With the victory secured, Army will regroup this week as they prepare to face Nadali in the upcoming final, aiming to claim the championship.
Meanwhile in the other results Nadali edged Vunivaivai 26-21 and will meet Army FTG in the tier 1 final and in the tier 2 finals Cautata will meet Naqeledamu.
