An article published on Sunday, August 19, 1984, reported the Nadroga Stallions maintaining their unbeaten record with a victory over Lautoka.
It stated a thrilling encounter at Churchill Park saw the Stallions continue their dominant streak in the Air Pacific-FRU competition, securing a hard-fought 17-9 victory over Lautoka.
The match drew cheers from a crowd of 4500 spectators who witnessed a display of skill and determination from both teams.
From the outset, Nadroga asserted their authority, swiftly gaining territorial advantage and earned early points with a penalty kick by Tawake Dakunibubului from 40 metres out.
This early lead set the tone for Nadroga’s strong performance, with their forwards showcasing superior prowess in lineouts, scrums, and possession.
“It was a delight to watch Nadroga’s forwards dominate,” a spectator said.
“Their power mauling and rucking had Lautoka on the back foot right from the start.”
The first breakthrough came in the 34th minute when a decisive move saw Sunia Nadruku set up a scoring opportunity with a well-placed kick.
Despite initial fumbles, former Stallions’ outside back Jone Ratu capitalised on the opportunity, diving over the try line to give Nadroga a 7-0 lead going into halftime.
“Lautoka’s defence was relentless,” observed another attendee during the break.
“They fought hard to keep Nadroga from extending their lead.”
The second half saw Lautoka mounting a spirited comeback, narrowing the gap with a penalty kick from Nasoni Buli and subsequently defending valiantly against Nadroga’s attacks.
However, Nadroga’s resilience shone through, particularly with Peceli Tuisawau’s try fifteen minutes into the half, extending their lead to 11-3.
Many of the spectators said their efforts to breach Nadroga’s defence were commendable, especially with captain Eneri Ratudradra’s crucial try.
With tensions high and time running out, Lautoka pressed hard in the dying moments of the match, desperate to overturn the scoreline.
Yet, Nadroga’s backline held firm, denying Lautoka any further opportunities.
The match was finally sealed for Nadroga in injury time when half-back Meli Nasauravua dashed down the blind side from a scrum, scoring a decisive try that secured their victory.
Dakunibubului’s successful conversion brought the final score to 17-9, maintaining Nadroga’s perfect record in the competition.
