A last-minute try to centre Tevita Sabola saved Naitasiri rugby from the jaws of defeat to Lautoka in the Farebrother Trophy challenge yesterday.
The 80th minute converted try saw Naitasiri defend the Farebrother Trophy 41-38 at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
The match had everyone on the edge of their seats as Lautoka looked to have secured the win, but Naitasiri stayed determined to steal it at the death.
Head coach Dr Ilatia Tuisese said while they’re happy for the win, there are many areas that they need to improve on before the next match.
Their next match is against Vatukoula.
Meanwhile, in other Skipper Cup results, Ba upset Nadi 31-24, Malolo stunned defending champion Nadroga 26-24, Suva beat Tailevu 28-24 and Macuata edged Vatukoula 29-27.
“Its typical Farebrother game, it went down to the wire, to the 80th minute. We almost lost it there, but the boys kept it, managed to recycle and put things together in the last second.
“We are humble for the win and thanks to Lautoka for putting up a strong game. That’s what a Farebrother game is like in Fiji.
“It is good for us, good for Lautoka and good for rugby that we get to witness a match that went right down to the wire,” he said.
Lautoka coach Peniona Ranitu shouldered the task of lifting the spirits of his disappointed players at the changing room, assuring them that the war is not over.
“Naitasiri came last year, and they took the trophy from us, so we were coming for revenge but unfortunately things did not happen our way, it’s beyond our control.
“I want to thank all our fans for supporting the boys during the two weeks they were in camp. Every better and bigger thing to come,” Ranitu said.
Naitasiri will face Vatukoula in its next match while Lautoka will take on Ba.
