KADAVU silenced the Ba crowd with a hard-fought 21-18 victory over Vinod Patel Ba in their Skipper Cup clash at 4R Stadium in Govind Park, Ba yesterday.
Kadavu made a strong start, playing an attacking brand of rugby to score two tries through Jolame Bainivalu and Apisai Waqanitu. Terio Tamani converted both tries.
Ba responded with a penalty from Joseva Nokelevu before Allen Johnson crossed for their first try, which Nokelevu converted.
Kadavu led 14-10 at halftime.
The second half continued to provide plenty of excitement as both teams lifted the intensity.
Ba bounced back quickly, with Swire Shipping Fijian Drua winger Joji Nasova scoring their second try. Nokelevu was unable to convert.
Ba were awarded their second penalty in the 61st minute, which Nokelevu successfully converted to bring them closer to Kadavu.
However, Kadavu’s impact players made the difference in the final quarter as they continued to apply pressure on the Ba defence.
Emosi Bukasoqosoqo broke through the Ba defensive line to score under the posts, with Tamani converting to extend Kadavu’s lead.
Kadavu held on in the final minutes to secure the 21-18 victory, sending their supporters into loud celebrations at 4R Stadium.
Kadavu head coach Solomone Nute said his players remained committed to their game plan despite expecting a strong challenge from Ba.
“We stuck to our game plan we know Ba will come out strong but we were firm.”
