NAITASIRI turned heartbreak into redemption, edging defending champions Malolo 15-11 in a bruising Skipper Cup quarter-final at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva yesterday.
The Highlanders not only avenged their defeat in last year’s final but also erased the disappointment of losing to Malolo in last week’s final round-robin match.
Leading 10-6 at half-time, Natasiri struck first in the second spell through a try before Malolo responded immediately to narrow the deficit to four points.
The champions launched a desperate comeback in the final quarter, but Natasiri stood firm to book their semi-final berth.
Head coach Timoci Tinaviti said controlling possession was the key message delivered to his players at half-time.
“We have to control possession. We have to stop Malolo from playing in front of territory,” Tinaviti said.
Despite injury concerns and players unavailable because of national commitments, Tinaviti backed his squad’s depth to sustain their title challenge.
“Yes, we have the depth with us. I trust all the players in my squad,” he said.
“Even if they go on national duty, there are still players who can fill in the gaps.”
Tinaviti said winning both trophies – the Skipper Cup and Farebrother Sullivan trophy remained the team’s five-year ambition, with the Highlanders determined to finish the job after last year’s final heartbreak.
