In just their first time in the Vodafone Deans competition, Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School created history by winning the under-17 Deans trophy after defeating traditional rugby giants Ratu Kadavulevu School 16-15 at the HFC Bank Stadium yesterday.
Relatively unknown in secondary schools rugby competition, MGM had to fight off a determined RKS side.
The Lodoni boys started off strong, scoring first in the match through flanker Laisiasa Sadrugu, whose try was converted by Joji Rakaba. Rakaba added three more points for a 10-0 lead.
A yellow card to RKS number eight Viliame Gaunavinaka gave MGM the opportunity to sneak their first try in the match.
The try was not converted but a successful penalty to Ilimotama Torau before the halftime break saw RKS lead 10-8.
The nail-biting game continued in the second half with a handful of missed scoring opportunities for MGM. The Lodoni boys extended their lead to 15-8 with a try to winger Semi Bukarau.
With some slick steals from Mosese Tabuakoto, MGM harassed RKS at the lineouts.
He repeated it during an RKS lineout barely metres from their own tryline, setting up Josevata Nokelevu for a try to close the gap to 15-13.
MGM had took a 16-15 lead after Viliame Lotawa kicked a penalty to make up for his missed conversion.
The final minutes of the game had everyone on the edge of their seats as RKS maintained possession and made good ground.
Playing into refeere’s time, RKS was adamant to score but the MGM defence held strong, forcing an error where MGM kicked the ball out to secure victory by a single point.
Victorious coach Koroi Matadigo couldn’t find the right words to describe his feelings after their historic win.
He said the incredible achievement by the Nabua-based school was testimont to the glory of God and the hardwork put in by the entire MGM family.
“What MGM has done today in the 84 years of the Deans competition, there’s never been a tier-two to come as debutants here not only to win in the competition but come unscathed and undefeated – that is only something God can do,” he said.
Matadigo said RKS, which have been the gladiators of secondary schools rugby competition, played a great game and the close score was evidence of the efforts from Lodoni brigade.
He congratulated their opponents for playing like champions and giving them a good battle on the field. He thanked the entire MGM family for their support throughout the Competition.
He said they would now shift their focus to their studies so that the boys can pass and be eligible to dawn the orange MGM jersey again next year.
Meanwhile, MGM flanker Tomasi Mawi Bola Koro was awarded the best player. He said he did not expect to scoop the award.
The Naitasiri lad said he was only focused on helping his team secure victory in the match but by God’s grace he was able to win the award.
