GENERAL Machinery Lautoka defeated Vinod Patel Ba 26-22 in round six of the Skipper Cup competition at Vinod Patel Park in Ba yesterday.
Ba started strongly in front of their home fans, executing their game plan well in the first half. They crossed the line twice through Peni Waqa and Paula Rokotuiloma, while Manasa Seruisovu added a conversion and a penalty.
Lautoka replied with tries to Isikeli Rabitu and Rusiate Matai, both converted by Kelemete Katudrau. Ba’s strong defensive effort helped them edge ahead 15-14 at halftime.
Lautoka captain Viliame Senileba praised his side’s determination.
“We have one target every week and that is to play to win, and we are happy that we have beaten Ba this round as we prepare for Malolo next round,” Senileba said.
With the vocal Ba supporters behind them, the hosts increased their intensity in the second half. Their dominance up front was rewarded with a penalty try, as Lautoka’s discipline slipped. But the visitors quickly regrouped and seized control of the final quarter.
Tries from Sireli Guivalu and Eliki Naikusa, with Rabitu adding a conversion, proved decisive.
Ba fought hard in the dying minutes, but Lautoka held on to secure a 26-22 victory at full time.
In oher Skipper Cup matches played yesterday, Naitasiri edged Macuata 33-31, Malolo thumped Nadi 52-27 while Tailevu upset Nadroga 31-29 at Lawaqa Park.
