The Fiji Bulikula side took a huge step towards their World Cup dream with a dominant 18-6 victory over the Cook Islands Moana in their Pacific Bowl clash at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva yesterday.
Former Fijiana Drua winger, Vitalina Naikore, was the star of the match as she scored three tries to propel her team to victory.
Both teams started off with some mistakes in the first sets, in front of a crowd of over 3000 fans.
The Cook Islands managed to score a try in the ninth minute through prop Kerehitina Matua, taking advantage of a crucial mistake by the Bulikula.
However, Fiji quickly responded as captain Talei Holmes scored a converted try in the 17th minute after some relentless pressure on the Cook Islands’ line.
Second rower Nanise Vakacavu, also made an impact with some big runs and timely offloads on the left edge, keeping the Cook Islanders on their toes throughout the match.
The victory was a result of solid defensive efforts from the Bulikula, as they kept the Cook Islands at bay for most of the game.
Captain Talei Holmes expressed her joy at leading her team to victory and praised the massive crowd for their support.
“It’s a massive performance. I still can’t believe it, massive crowd as well tonight (last night).
“I feel so great to lead my team to victory, and I got another week with my girls, as we take on Samoa this week.
“We used that hard defence in the first half, we knew we could do it and we did it.”
Head coach Joe Rabele commended Holmes for her leadership and experience, which played a crucial role in the team’s success.
“I’m so happy for the performance and Talei for her leading the team,” said Rabele.
“Thats why we chose her, for the experience that she had, she has been involved with us from 2019, and so proud for her to be the leader for our young Bulikula girls coming up.
“We got a lot of things to improve on before we face Samoa.”
The win not only secured a spot in the next round against Samoa but also kept Bulikula’s World Cup dream alive.
The Bulikula will play Samoa for a spot in the World Cup next week in Auckland.
