Published in The Fiji Times on Saturday, August 17, 1991
The Deans Trophy travelled to Delainakikai in Tailevu for the 20th time after Ratu Kadavulevu School out-scored neighbours Queens Victoria School 19-15 in a thrilling final at the National Stadium in Suva.
RKS captain Aporosa Vinaka then vowed that this time the trophy was going to stay on their territory for some time yet.
Vinaka made the vow after he received the highest prize in the Shell Fiji Secondary School rugby competition following his team’s winning display in front of the 7000 odd crowds.
In doing so RKS, playing their blue and gold hooped jerseys, increased their victory record to 18 edging the Blues who have won the coveted secondary school rugby prize 17 times.
Both schools shared the trophy twice in 1989 and last season, the end result was looking that way again until RKS shifted to top gear in the second spell to record a deserving victory.
That victory came RKS was after some strong forward play and the enterprising display of a fast backline engineered by robust second five eight Jona Koroitamaya.
Although down 6-12 at the breather the Vinaka led side slowly took control of proceedings at the resumption to score two grand tries, one each to flanker Timoci Naulusala and winger Jonetani Vulaono.
Fullback Ropate Ratu scored 11 points from a conversion and three penalties as the boys from Lodoni played like demon possessed men in the second spell.
QVS began strongly in the first spell with captain number eight Samisoni Batiyaka proving successful with four penalties to give his side a comfortable 12-6 lead at the breather.
QVS dominated the set pieces in the first spell with brothers Sosiceni and Kiniwaqa showing their agility with two hand catches in the lineouts.
But a much-improves performance in the second spell by the RKS pack set the foundation for a victorious ending to their 1991 rugby season.
The RKS captain also made special mention of help rendered by Fiji Rugby Union development officer Navi Taka and national sevens coach Ratu Kitione Vesikula.
Referee Ledua Qalo kept a tight control on the game which turned into a free boxing exhibition mid-way through the second spell.