Nadi secured a hard-fought 20-11 victory over Macuata in round two of the 2024 Skipper Cup yesterday at a packed Prince Charles Park.
Despite the win, the hosts were made to work for every point by a determined Macuata outfit, who took control early in the first half.
Macuata contained Nadi’s experienced side well, responding to an early try from Josh Uluibau in the second minute with a penalty kick by Viliame Maiono. They then surged ahead with a well-worked try from Isikeli Maro, unsettling the home side’s rhythm.
Just three minutes before halftime, Uluibau crossed the try line for the second time to hand Nadi a narrow 10-8 lead at the break.
With Swire Shipping Fijian Drua reps Mesake Vocevoce and Elia Canakaivata adding punch to the forward pack, Nadi regained momentum in the second half. However, Macuata came out strong, reclaiming the lead with a penalty from fullback Niko Yalosolo.
But it was short-lived. Backed by a vocal home crowd, Nadi responded with two unanswered tries through Laisiasa Karaci and powerhouse forward Vocevoce to seal the win.
Speaking after the match, Nadi captain Veniona Vuki admitted the match was far from easy.
“It was a tough match against Macuata. I reminded the boys not to commit unnecessary errors. Macuata gave us a good match. A big vinaka vakalevu to all the fans who came out in numbers.”
Macuata, under the guidance of new head coach Osea Umuumulovo, just six weeks into the role showed great structure and potential.
“We have a process in place and we need to follow that process.
“The boys played well according to our game plan, but the scoreboard was not in our favour. We also had to deal with some injuries,” Umuumulovo said.
The result sees Nadi bounce back with confidence, while Macuata continues to build promising momentum in the competition.