NADROGA will take the INKK Farebrother-Sullivan Trophy Challenge to the rugby town after ending Ra’s impressive run with a hard-fought 28-20 victory in the second round at Narauyaba Grounds yesterday.
The Stallions produced a determined performance to overcome a spirited Ra outfit in a closely contested encounter, setting up their next defence in Nadroga.
Nadroga made a flying start, scoring within the opening three minutes when flanker Jonacani Vucago crossed the tryline. However, Maika Waqavanua was unsuccessful with the conversion.
The opening half was physical, with both teams testing each other’s defence. Nadroga also had two players, Sefanaia Tokaduadua and Leveni Tokamato, sent to the sin-bin for professional fouls, while Ra halfback Peni Matawalu was also yellow-carded.
Ra regrouped and responded in the 18th minute through Anare Kaloubenau, although the conversion attempt was unsuccessful.
Nadroga’s experience and forward power proved valuable as hooker Josua Bola scored their second try in the 35th minute following a successful driving maul.
The conversion was unsuccessful, but Nadroga held a 10-5 lead at halftime.
The atmosphere at Narauyaba Grounds was electric, with supporters from both camps turning up in their colours. Ra fans dressed in red while Nadroga supporters filled the venue in black and white, creating a vibrant backdrop with their chants and cheers.
Nadroga returned from the break with renewed intensity, maintaining their structure and playing a tactical game.
Winger Kelemedi Lagi extended their lead with a try in the corner in the 48th minute, before Ra fullback Weresilo Fero responded with a successful penalty.
The Stallions continued to dominate through their powerful forward pack, with number eight Manasa Delevasa scoring their fourth try before prop Leveni Tokamato crossed for their fifth following another successful forward drive.
Ra refused to surrender and fought their way back into the contest when winger Viliame Rokovucago scored their second try.
The visitors continued to push, producing a gutsy effort in the closing stages, with prop Apenisa Waqawai crossing in the 77th minute. Fero added the conversion to keep Ra within striking distance.
However, Nadroga maintained their composure, with Jone Vatuwaliwali sealing the victory through a late penalty to secure the 28-20 win.
