NAITASIRI held their nerve to claim a narrow 26-24 victory over Nadi in a pulsating Skipper Cup round four clash at Churchill Park in Lautoka yesterday.
The Highlanders started strongly, controlling possession and using their backline effectively to dictate play. Their early dominance was rewarded with two tries Qiokata Senijale diving over first before winger Vosawale Veniasi finished off a sweeping move. Senijale added both conversions to push Naitasiri out to a 14-point cushion.
Nadi, however, responded in style through Josua Uluibau and Aminiasi Tuinayau, with only one try successfully converted by fly-half Paterisio Lutumailagi. That left Naitasiri clinging to a slim 14-12 advantage at halftime.
The second half produced more drama as Naitasiri continued to apply pressure through structured play. Nadi’s discipline, however, cost them dearly when No. 8 Veniona Vuki was shown a red card, forcing them to play a man down for much of the half.
Naitasiri capitalised, with Veniasi crossing for his second try and Apimeleki Nabola adding another. Senijale converted one of the two tries to extend their tally.
Despite the setback, Nadi refused to go quietly. They mounted a brave fightback, scoring through Sailosi Vulakalokalo and winger Paula Masibalavu. Lutumailagi slotted one conversion to bring them within two points, but Naitasiri’s defence held firm in the dying moments to seal the 26-24 win.
Head coach Timoci Tinaviti acknowledged both the win and the areas his team must improve.
“First of all, we thank the Lord for the win as we gear up for the Farebrother next week against Lautoka, which we will host.
“Even though we won the game, there are still areas to improve. We will go back to the drawing board and work on our work-ons,” Tinaviti said.
In the U20 grade, Nadi defeated Naitasiri 18-5.
In other Western Skipper Cup matches results, Nadroga survived a fierce challenge from Vinod Patel Ba at Lawaqa Park, holding on for a 27-24 win in front of their home fans.
In a major upset, Fiji Pine Ba U20 stunned Nadroga 29-27 at the same venue.
At Theodore Park in Vatukoula, Lautoka edged the hosts 37-32.
