JUST IN: Jona Sawailau expressed his emotions when Lautoka’s 21-year drought for the Farebrother Trophy ended.
Jona Sawailau expressed his emotions when Lautoka’s 21-year drought for the Farebrother Trophy ended.
At Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, Lautoka defeated Nadi 16–10 to snap its 21-year Farebrother Trophy drought. Flyhalf Fijian Drua The game’s most valuable player was Isikeli Rabitu. After two minutes, Rabitu broke through the defense to score the opening try, giving Nadi flyhalf Tuidraki Samusamuvodre a five-point lead before he converted a penalty kick. The Maroons’ captain, Jona Sawailau, scored their second try following a mistake by Nadi within their own half, and Rabitu added another penalty.
Just before halftime, though, Nadi number eight Jaoji Koroimataitini stormed over for a converted try, leaving the jetsetters behind 10–13. Orisi Erenavula, the inside center, was sent off for dangerous play in the 54th minute, leaving Nadi with just 14 players at the end of the match.
In addition, Lautoka was given two yellow cards during the game. Gabrieli Ratu received the first one, and in the 64th minute, Apakuki Vuaviri Rabitu scored another penalty to give Lautoka a 16–10 advantage.
With twelve minutes remaining, another member for the Nadi team was sent to the sin bin. Next week’s challenger is Suva. Malolo defeated Namosi 34-30 in the Skipper Cup and Vodafone Vanua Cup promotion relegation round 1, while Vatukoula triumphed 30-22 over Yasawa.
