VODAFONE Fiji Bati captain Kevin Naiqama has commended the hard work by the forwards as the key to their 44-18 victory over Toa Samoa in their International Rugby League Federation Oceania Cup Test opener at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand yesterday.
“The forwards were amazing,” Naiqama said.
“They really set the platform for us and were outstanding.”
The forwards did take the cake with Viliame Kikau leading the charge and getting two tries in the eight tries to four romp of Samoa who were the favourites heading into the clash.
The Bati controlled the game from the get go running five tries in the first half from Joe Lovodua, Joseph Ratuvakacereivalu, D’Rhys Miller and Viliame Kikau getting a double.
Canterbury Bulldogs and Bati pivot Brandon Wakeham converted all five tries in the first half.
Samoa managed a try towards the end of halftime through left centre Timoteo Lafai who also added the two points sending both teams to the tunnel with the Bati in a commanding lead by 30-6.
The Bati added three tries in the second half to secure the win through Isaac Lumelume, Brayden Wiliame and the skipper Naiqama with fullback Siti Moceidreke adding one conversion.
Samoa came back a little too late with right wing Jordan Taufua grabbing a double and fullback Ronaldo Mutilato having the last say of the game.
Naiqama said they were happy for the win but it was not over yet.
“The boys executed what was needed, but we have another job next week.”
The Vodafone Bati take on the Papua New Guinea Kumuls next week in their last Oceania Cup test match.
Vodafone Fiji Bati
1. Siti Moceidreke, 2. Isaac Lumelume, 3. Taane Milne, 4. Brayden Williame, 5. Suliasi Vunivalu, 6. Kevin Naiqama, 7. Brandon Wakeham, 8. Kane Evans, 9. Joe Lovodua, 10. Tui Kamikamica, 11. Viliame Kikau, 12. Ben Nakubuwai, 13. D’Rhys Miller, 14. Joey Ratu, 15. Penioni Tagituimua, 16. Lamar Liolavave, 17. King Vuniyayawa, 18. Maika Sivo, 19. Junior Roqica
