Skipper Cup R10, Nadroga v Tailevu Match Report

Nadroga manage to overcome a strong Tailevu side with a narrow win 23 – 18 in their round 10 match earlier today at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka.

Tailevu were swift in their play and were consistent with their attack while the Stallions executed well on their structured play, they kept the pace alight with their running rugby and support play.

As momentum continues to rise, both teams opted for territorial play as they continue to kick for territory.

The defense was intact from both sides and fans enjoyed the fast-flowing rugby showcased by both teams.

High momentum and pressure from the game resulted in yellow cards given, as 4 players, 2 from each side were sent out for infringements

What happened
Early in the first few minutes Tailevu conceded a penalty right on the halfway line as Waqatabu slotted in the penalty for the first point of the match 3 – 0.

Paula Nayacakalou of Tailevu scored the first try on the 15th minutes after he touched down a kick from Apisalome Waqatabu, and ran straight to scored the try as Seru Vaniqi added the extra 2.

In the 18 minutes, Timoci Sauvoli of Nadroga was given a yellow card for a high tackle.

Viliame Kanatabua made a clean break in the 32 minutes and ran straight for the try line before Nadroga fullback Apisalome Waqatabu made a try-saving tackle, however, Tailevu’s support play was consistent as they recycled the ball out wide with an overlap as Timoci Vunimoko ran in to score their second try and extend their lead.

Nadroga conceded another penalty outside their 22 right before the halftime and Seru Vaniqi of Tailevu added another 3 points to the score board extending their lead 12 – 3.

A Yellow card was given to Vetaia Tikomailepanoni for a dangerous tackle on Waqatabu, giving another opportunity to Waqatabu to add another 3 pointer to their scoreboard.

Right before halftime, an open play from Nadroga exploited Tailevu’s defense and provided a gap for Joseva Kuricuva to run in for the try line and score their first try 15 – 11.

Early in the second half, another yellow card was given to Nadroga’s Nadroga’s Sakiusa Gavidi for a lay tackle.

Another Penalty was awarded to Tailevu for hands in the ruck as Vaniqi extended the lead 18 – 11 in the 48 minutes.

A loose ball from Tailevu was picked up by Nadro’s Peni Kadralevu running straight for the tryline closing score margin 16 – 18

In the 53 minutes, Nadroga’s Peni Kadralevu made a clean break before offloading to Beniamino Kalounivale to score the final of the match 23 – 18.

In other Round 10 Skipper match Lautoka beat Yasawa 26 – 10 and Naitasiri beat Namosi 25 – 15.