Tailevu Rugby president Joe Rodan believes his side has what it takes to go all the way in the Skipper Cup after their impressive 39-18 quarter-final win over Lautoka at Churchill Park yesterday.
“Looking at Tailevu’s performance, I can say we can beat any team in the Skipper Cup.
“We’re looking forward to the semi-final now and the finals. We set our goals months ago to win the Skipper Cup and we are on track. The boys’ performance in this quarter-final shows they are capable,” Rodan said.
Tailevu dominated from the opening whistle, led by Swire Shipping Fijian Drua scrumhalf Simione Kuruvoli, who was instrumental in attack.
The side displayed strong kicking and chasing tactics that earned them vital possession, which Lautoka struggled to contain.
They led 24-6 at halftime with tries from Vunaki Waqanibau, Mika Delana, and Saula Tui, while Anare Tabakaucoro slotted three conversions and a penalty. Lautoka’s points came through two penalties from Netava Nayacalevu.
In the second half, Tailevu continued their momentum, adding another 15 points through tries from Kuruvoli and Maika Selema, with Tabakaucoro adding a conversion and Albert Stanley a penalty.
Lautoka managed two consolation tries through Angelo Smith and Isikeli Rabitu, with Kelemete Katudrau converting one.
The win seals Tailevu’s spot in the Skipper Cup semi-final next week.
