Natabua High School and Jasper Williams High School will battle for the U18 Raluve title in the West Secondary School Rugby final next Saturday after both teams secured hard-fought semi-final victories at 4R Stadium in Ba yesterday.
Natabua booked their place in the final after surviving a thrilling contest against Thomas Baker Memorial School, with the match ending in a 12-12 draw at full time.
With both teams locked at 12 points apiece, the result was decided according to the competition rules, which states that in the event of a draw, the team that scores the first try will be declared the winner.
Natabua had the advantage after crossing the try line first, earning them the win and a place in the final.
It was a tense encounter as both teams showed determination and resilience, with neither side willing to surrender their chance of playing for the championship.
Natabua school manager Rigieta Radrodro praised the effort of her players and acknowledged the strong support from their fans and old scholars.
“We thank our supporters and old scholars for their support and the girls for a great effort,” Radrodro said.
“It was tough, but we thank the Lord.”
Meanwhile, Jasper Williams High School delivered a dominant performance in the second semi-final, producing an impressive 40-0 victory over Nadroga Navosa College to secure their place in the final.
Jasper Williams controlled the match from the opening whistle, displaying strong attacking combinations and disciplined defence to keep Nadroga Navosa scoreless throughout the encounter.
The comprehensive win sends a strong message ahead of the final, with Jasper Williams entering the championship decider full of confidence.
The final next Saturday will see two of the West’s top girls’ rugby schools go head-to-head, with Natabua’s fighting spirit set to meet Jasper Williams’ attacking firepower in what promises to be an exciting U18 Raluve showdown.
