THE Tailevu men’s rugby team showed great determination and fighting spirit yesterday when they came from behind to beat a strong Naitasiri side 27-22 at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori.
The match was played in the second round of the 2025 Skipper Cup competition and drew a big crowd of rugby fans from the Nausori corridor.
The weather was fine, and the atmosphere was loud and colorful as both teams ran onto the field.
Naitasiri started strongly, using their forwards to control possession and territory in the first half.
They went into the halftime break leading 15-12.
But Tailevu did not give up.
At the break, the players were reminded of their goal, to come away with a win and they returned to the field with more energy and focus.
Their determination showed as they lifted their game in the second spell, scoring points at key moments to take control of the match.
The experience of Swire Shipping Fijian Drua halfback Simione Kuruvoli helped guide the team around the field, while the impact of the substitutes brought fresh legs and extra power.
“We came here this afternoon to battle but we know we will walk away this afternoon with the win,” said team manager Wame Bainivanua.
“We just told the boys going into the second half to give all their best and tell them that the target that we set to come to win, we will walk away with the win.”
The team was made up of players from various local clubs, strengthened by the additions of Drua players Kurovoli and Isikeli Rabitu, and Fiji 7s player Rupeni Kabu.
Their cheering from the stands gave the players an extra boost in the final stages.
“We thank the community of Kubuna for coming in number out here today to support us,” Wame added.