NAVOSA has booked its place in the final of the Royal Tea Ranadi Cup after holding off a powerful Cakaudrove side for a thrilling 33-31 victory in their Ranadi semi-final clash at the HFC Bank Stadium.
Cakaudrove took control early, racing to a 19-7 halftime lead through disciplined defence and a well-executed attack.
While the side carried the momentum into the second spell, Navosa began perfectly with a converted try narrowing the points gap giving the side a significant boost.
Cakaudrove, however, refused to go away. It mounted a spirited comeback, going neck to neck against Navosa to close gap and set up tense finish.
Despite the late challenge from Cakaudrove, Navosa stayed calm in the final minutes to hold off the late comeback, winning 33-31 to reach the final.
Captain of the Navosa side, Maria Nauvasi credits her team for the hard work they put in allowing them to secure a spot in the final.
Nauvasi also shared despite the challenges the team faced, they delivered a spectacular performance.
“I thank the girls for the hard work they have put in,” Nauvasi said.
“At times we faced challenges at camp, but I thank God for giving us the victory.”
The captain also expressed gratitude to the supporters for coming out in numbers and showing their support to the team.
“Thank you to our supporters for coming out in numbers and cheering us out.”
Meanwhile in the other Ranadi semi-finals Yasawa thrashed Northern Bulls 90-17 booking their finals berth with a statement of intent.
The two team’s will meet in the finals next week and will also progress to next year’s top tier competition the Marama Cup.
In the Vanua Cup U20 semi-finals Cakaudrove edged Northland 23-16, while Macuata overcame a spirited Coastland side 39-32.
This sets the stage for a northern finals showdown in next week between Macuata and Cakaudrove.
