CUVU College head coach Luke Salaba has praised his side’s disciplined performance after they thrashed St John’s College Cawaci 55-7 to secure a place in next week’s Vodafone Deans under-18 quarter-finals at Lawaqa Park on Saturday.
Salaba said his players executed their game plan well but stressed there was still room for improvement ahead of the knockout stages.
“It was a good effort from our boys. We did not underestimate Cawaci. Right now our focus is the quarter-final and we will work on our weaknesses.
“We will try to improve as we take one game at a time,” he said.
Cuvu dominated from the opening whistle, crossing for five first-half tries to take a commanding 33-7 lead at the break.
Josateki Toutou opened the scoring before Viliame Ratu added the conversion.
Waisake Tabua extended the lead with Cuvu’s second try, again converted by Ratu.
Waisale Nacola crossed for the third try with Ratu maintaining his perfect kicking record before Kamenieli Naikaniwasawasa powered over for the fourth, with Ratu adding another conversion.
Marika Senibua scored the fifth try before Ratu missed his first conversion attempt.
St John’s College Cawaci responded through Vilikesa Tokalauvere, with Suluo converting to leave the halftime score at 33-7.
Cuvu continued to dominate after the break as Naikaniwasawasa grabbed his second try of the match before Inoke Bolakania crossed for another five-pointer.
Jone Naivakarau added Cuvu’s eighth try, with the conversion successful, before Ro Viliame Mataitini completed the scoring with the ninth try as Cuvu sealed an emphatic 55-7 victory.
Despite the heavy defeat, Cawaci head coach Josaia Diani was pleased with his team’s effort.
“I’m impressed and satisfied with our players’ performance.
“This is one of our best games we have ever played.”
