THE Army team conceded too many penalties in the annual match against Police yesterday that saw them lose the Ratu Sukuna Bowl title 17-25.
Police were aggressive throughout the first 40 minutes with flyhalf Jonetani Ralulu capitalising on four penalties that saw them lead 12-6 at half time. His Nadroga teammate and counterpart in yesterday’s match Tikilaci Vuibau slotted Army’s two penalties.
Vuibau narrowed the margin 12-9 two minutes into the second spell but Ratu Meli Kurisaru was quick to respond for Police with a drop goal that saw Police lead again by a six-point margin.
Referee James Bolabiu awarded the men in blue a penalty try that was successfully converted 20 minutes into the second spell, with Army disrupting a scrum, five metres out from the tryline.
The try was the key factor to their victory as Army’s efforts to bridge the margin after a try from Sireli Ledua and another penalty from Vuibau was a little too late as Ralulu was on target with his kicking abilities with another successful penalty making him the clear star of the game earning 17 of their 25 points.
Police coach and former national representative Savenaca Aria said the win was because of the team’s efforts and commitment to training.
“The boys had faced challenges in the lead-up to the game but the early morning training and the disrupted sleep in the short span of time they have prepared has paid off,” he said.
Queried on the strength of the team that was a contributing factor to their victory, he said a “united front in both the team and the Lord” was the only factor.
Acting Military Commander Viliame Naupoto said the game yesterday has set the platform for the team as they prepare for the International Defence Rugby Competition in England.
“The game is a stepping stone for us to the world cup and performance is important to us. The final team has been selected but we will have to make allowances for some injuries before the final team departs the country,” he said.
The IDRC is scheduled for next month and coincides with the Rugby World Cup.
