Veteran Michael Jennings achieved a remarkable hat-trick as the Vodafone Fiji Bati decisively defeated the Cook Islands 56-6 in their second match of the NRL Pacific Bowl Championship held in Suva.
The Cook Islands initially took the lead with a try from Rua Ngatikaura, but Fiji quickly responded with a flurry of four tries. Sunia Turuva scored the first try for Fiji, followed by Jennings, who netted two tries. Kitione Kautoga capped off the scoring in the first half, while Taane Milne converted all the tries, giving Fiji a comfortable 24-6 lead at halftime.
The second half saw the Fijians dominate, adding six more tries against the Cook Islands’ defense. Semi Valemei scored twice, along with Maika Sivo who also contributed two tries, while Jennings and Ben Nakubuwai each added one. Milne excelled in the match, 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 for promotion to the Pacific Cup in 2025. To continue their pursuit, they will need the Cook Islands to secure a win against Papua New Guinea in the upcoming Week 3 match.
Leave a comment