The sound of the final whistle at the Nakelo District School ground yesterday brought a different celebration for fans, players and officials of Tailevu.
They didn’t only celebrate the 24-19 victory over Naitasiri in their Skipper Cup competition clash but the result from the ANZ Stadium where challenger Nadi shocked Namosi 21-22 in the Farebrother-Sullivan trophy game yesterday.
The green machine have booked its spot next season.
“We have been preparing for this game as a buildup to our challenge next week because we were sure Nadi will do something,” Tailevu coach and school teacher Samisoni Baikeitoga said.
The emotional Nadali man said yesterday’s game was important as he told the players before the game the province’s hope was on their shoulder.
“It has been a tough journey for us since our position in the Skipper Cup competition next season was on the line too,” Baikeitoga said.
“It’s not easy going down to Nadi but we will prepare to face the giants.”
Naitasiri, going into the game were hoping to dedicate the win to former player and looseman Semisi Vulayali.
Coach Dr Ilaitia Tuisese Jr said if you don’t turn up to play then that would cost you.
“For us it’s going back to the drawing board and see what went wrong,” he said.
He said Tailevu played with a well planned game in the second half.
“We camped inside their half most of the time as they were taking advantage of the wind,” Dr Tuisese Jr said.
Naitasiri skipper and hooker Seremaia Naureure were sin-binned for a high tackle.
Tailevu’s points came through openside flanker Vetaia Tikomailepanoni, halfback Peniasi Ravodolo, and second five eighth Paula Nayacakalou while playmaker Seru Vaniqi converted all tries.
For Naitasiri flanker Tomasi Naiduki scored the first try and also one to Naureure which Kini Douglas successfully converted both tries.
Replacement player Peceli Rokotuivatu scored in the dying minutes but was not enough for the visitors.
