NAITASIRI survived a spirited second-half fightback from Nadroga before pulling away late to secure a 35-20 victory at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori yesterday.
The Highlanders appeared to have the match under control after taking a 22-8 lead into halftime, but Nadroga refused to surrender and scored two successive tries to reduce the deficit to just two points at 22-20.
With momentum swinging towards Nadroga, Naitasiri showed composure when it mattered most, converting two penalties before sealing the result with a converted try in the final minute.
Naitasiri head coach Timoci Tinaviti said the victory came with important lessons for his side ahead of their next match against Nadi.
“We came away with a victory but the match also exposed a lot of weaknesses we have to work on,” he said.
“On Monday we will take these as major work-ons before our next match against Nadi next week.”
Tinaviti said his players’ resilience during the final quarter proved decisive after Nadroga had threatened to complete the comeback.
“In the last 10 minutes the message was simple — to hold on to the ball and build on our phases,” he said.
That approach allowed Naitasiri to regain control and maintain pressure before their late converted try put the result beyond doubt.
Tinaviti said the team would use the match as an opportunity to address the areas that allowed Nadroga back into the contest.
He also thanked the Naitasiri supporters who turned out in numbers to rally behind the team and provide encouragement throughout the match.
