SUVA Grammar School (SGS) Under-18 fullback Semi Solovani proved the hero yesterday, slotting a last-minute penalty to seal a dramatic 27-24 quarter-final victory over Lelean Memorial School at Churchill Park.
With the scores locked at 24-24 and less than five minutes remaining, SGS pressed forward, forcing a penalty against Lelean.
Solovani, showing composure under pressure, calmly converted the kick to send his side into the semi-finals.
Lelean started strongly, dominating the first half with well-structured attacking play. They crossed the line three times through Akapusi Nadavu, Asesela Volaukitoga, and Siliverio Ramasi, with Eremasi Tune adding all three conversions to give them a 21-17 halftime lead.
SGS kept themselves in the contest in the opening spell with tries to Ratu Paula Vonolagi and Viliame Daurua. Solovani added one conversion and a penalty to keep the scoreboard ticking.
The momentum shifted in the second half as SGS changed their rhythm, with Aselemo Robanakadavu scoring their third try, converted by Solovani.
Lelean managed only a penalty through Tune before Solovani’s decisive strike in the dying moments.
Taveuni native Solovani credited the victory to collective effort.
“I want to thank God for the win. Our message was teamwork and unity, and that’s what got us through,” he said.