Suva defends Skipper Cup title, players thank families for achievement
An emotional Suva captain Isireli Ledua thanked the families of the players after winning the 2019 Skipper Cup title at ANZ Stadium in Suva.
The capital city side continued its fine form beating Nadroga 34-26 in a pulsating final.
Ledua said Suva doesn’t have a wide fan base but it’s the families who have always been there for the team this season.
“The win is for our families and friends overseas. They are the ones who follow us every week. It just the 23 families of the players who support us where ever we go and play for Suva.”
He added “Suva team is based in city. People from all around Fiji come and play for Suva because of work and other commitments. This is not a Vanua team that we have to meet all the expectations.”
Suva started the match on a high note and got onto the score board in the 4th minute after a try from Jiuta Takubu, Setareki Raoba then extended Suva’s lead to 10-nil.
Nadroga made a late start and scored three consecutive tries through Eremasi Radrodro, Amenoni Nasilasila and Nacanieli Narekuva to lead 19-10.
Suva full back Raoba was perfect getting the much needed three points from the penalty kick after which Takubu scored his second try to take a 20-19 lead at the breather.
The Stallions began the second spell with a bang with Eremasi Radrodro getting his second try. But it was the home side which scored two quick tries to defend the title in style at Laucala.
Coach Saiasi Fuli thanked the players for putting up a wonderful performance in the final.
“I think it was a very good game of rugby and hats off to both teams for a great final. I think we stayed focused in the final quarter of the game and remained composed as we defended the Skipper Cup title.”
He added “In the first half we lost a lot of quality balls and two unusual restarts which enabled Nadroga to bounce back quickly. Hats off to Nadroga, they are a very good team, they are the real champions of Fiji rugby for the past 15 to 20 years. I believe if we need to beat Nadroga we should be performing to our best.”
Suva walked away with the prestigious Skipper Cup title and $30,000 while Nadroga received $15,000.
Meanwhile, Nadroga won the Under-19 title beating Naitasiri 18-15 while Tailevu was crowned womens champion after thumping Nadroga 43-10.