Veteran player Michael Jennings shone brightly as the Vodafone Fiji Bati triumphed over the Cook Islands with a resounding 56-6 victory in their second match of the NRL Pacific Bowl Championship held in Suva.
The Cook Islands initially took the lead with a quick try from Rua Ngatikaura, but the Fijian team responded vigorously, scoring four consecutive tries. Sunia Turuva opened the scoring for Fiji, followed by Jennings who added two more tries, and Kitione Kautoga rounded off the first half scoring. Taane Milne successfully converted all the tries, giving Fiji a commanding 24-6 lead at halftime.
The second half showcased Fiji’s dominance as they broke through the Cook Islands defense, adding another six tries to their tally. The scoring included two tries each from Semi Valemei and Maika Sivo, along with tries from Jennings and Ben Nakubuwai.
Milne had an impressive performance, finishing with 230 meters gained, seven successful conversions, and three offloads. This victory keeps the Fiji Bati’s hopes alive for the Pacific Bowl and a chance at promotion to the Pacific Cup in 2025. They now require the Cook Islands to secure a win against Papua New Guinea in Week 3 to further their chances.
Leave a comment