Fiji Bulikula winger Vitalina Naikore delivered an impressive performance, scoring three tries to lead her team to an 18-6 victory over the Cook Islands in the Pacific Bowl Championship held at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva on Saturday.
Naikore, a former standout for Fijian Drua Women, received support from her family, who made the journey from Bua in Vanua Levu to cheer for her and the team.
The Cook Islands opened the scoring in the ninth minute with a try from prop Kerehitina Matua. However, Fiji responded quickly, with captain Talei Holmes scoring in the 17th minute after sustained pressure. Naikore then crossed the line five minutes later, securing a 10-6 lead for Fiji at halftime.
In the early moments of the second half, Naikore added her second try, capitalizing on a precise kick from halfback Losana Lutu, showcasing her speed to race to the try line.
Named Player of the Match, Naikore completed her hat-trick in the 60th minute when the Cook Islands were left vulnerable on the right flank during a fourth tackle.
The Bulikula will now prepare to face Samoa in New Zealand for a spot in the World Cup, with the match scheduled at Go Media Stadium in Auckland on November 2nd.
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