NADI has taken the top spot in the Skipper Cup standings after beating competition leaders Naitasiri 27-23 in their top-of-the-table clash at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori yesterday.
The Nadi players left their families behind on Tuesday and travelled to Suva to prepare for the crucial match, with their sacrifice paying off with victory over the competition leaders.
Nadi head coach Cohan Politini said the result was important for his side as it guaranteed them a home quarter-final.
“It was an important win for us because it guarantees us a home quarter-final,” Politini said.
He said playing Naitasiri at their home ground was always a challenge, particularly in tough conditions, but Nadi’s kicking game proved decisive.
“It’s always a challenge to play Naitasiri at their home ground, especially under tough conditions,” he said.
“We are fortunate to have a kicking game in our arsenal and that helped us beat a really good Naitasiri team.”
Naitasiri head coach Timoci Tinaviti said Nadi were the better team.
“Nadi were the better team,” Tinaviti said.
Tinaviti said Naitasiri would look to respond when they face defending champions Malolo next week.
“We will look to make a stronger comeback next week against Malolo,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kadavu stunned Ba on its home turf at the 4R Stadium, Govind Park too, with a resounding 21-18 victory.
The hosts were taken to the wire by the visitors who were adamant on returning to their island home with a win that would bring them a step closer towards finals contention.
In other results received before this edition went to press, Tailevu drew 18-all with Malolo at the Nakelo District School ground in Tailevu.
