THE Sabeto Roosters will celebrate their tenth anniversary in style after beating fellow village team Ravoravo Rabbitohs 12-8 to clinch the premier grade title during the Fiji National Rugby League 2017 Vodafone Cup final at Prince Charles Park in Nadi yesterday.
This was the Roosters’ fourth premiership title win since the club was formed in 2008.
The Roosters previously won the title in 2010, 2013 and 2015.
Nippy Roosters half back Josua Rokonavutoro won the man of the match award. With a vocal crowd of around 3000, both teams displayed fast pace and strong hits. The Rabbitohs took an early 6-0 lead with a Timoci Namotukula try and penalty.
Roger Qoro opened the Roosters account with a penalty and Aporosa Rakoto’s 35th minute try levelled the scores.
In the 53rd minute, Waisea Nasekau scored the second try for the Roosters and Iliapi Nabou converted. Namotukula landed his second penalty in the 60th minute.
Roosters team manager Ratu Josaia Nabukatavatava said they came fully prepared and his boys deserved victory.
“We had some weaknesses that we overcame,” he said.
“Two elders in the village who were our ardent supporters passed away recently. The boys put in a gallant performance.
“This is our fourth title in the ten-year history of the Sabeto Roosters. We will celebrate our tenth anniversary in a big way in November together with our brothers, the Rabbitohs.”
Former Fiji Bati and Rabbitohs captain Josateki Savou said two years ago they decided to form a new team in Sabeto because of the abundance of talent in the village.
“The reward of this has shown with the two teams reaching the final,” he said.
“Thanks to the major sponsor and everyone who have supported rugby league. We fought hard from the beginning but Sabeto came out on top.”
