Veteran player Michael Jennings achieved a remarkable hat-trick as the Vodafone Fiji Bati dominated the Cook Islands with a score of 56-6 in their second match of the NRL Pacific Bowl Championship in Suva.
The Cook Islands initially took the lead with a quick try from Rua Ngatikaura, but the Fijian team responded powerfully, scoring four consecutive tries. Sunia Turuva was the first for Fiji, followed by Jennings with two tries, and Kitione Kautoga added another just before halftime. Taane Milne successfully converted all the tries, giving Fiji a comfortable 24-6 lead at the break.
The second half saw Fiji further overpower their opponents, adding another six tries with contributions from Semi Valemei (2), Maika Sivo (2), Jennings, and Ben Nakubuwai. Milne concluded the match with impressive stats, covering 230 meters, along with seven conversions and three offloads.
This victory keeps the Fiji Bati in contention for the Pacific Bowl and the chance for promotion to the Pacific Cup in 2025. However, for Fiji to advance further, they will rely on the Cook Islands to defeat Papua New Guinea in the upcoming Week 3 match.
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