Lami High School made history on Saturday by winning their first U19 Vodafone Super Deans title in the Secondary Schools Rugby competition, edging out the formidable Queen Victoria School 20-19 at the HFC Bank Stadium.
Lami started strong, taking an early lead with a penalty kick for a score of 3-0. Queen Victoria School quickly responded, as Rupeni Cabenapaipo scored a try, temporarily shifting the advantage in their favor.
Just before halftime, Tunoa Qerea of Lami scored a try, putting the team ahead 8-5.
In the second half, Isoa Laulaba added to Lami’s score with another try, although the conversion attempt was unsuccessful.
Queen Victoria School rallied back, with tries from Lemeki Racava and Josaia Tuinabouwaqa, one of which was converted, allowing them to take a lead at 19-13.
In a thrilling finish, Lami made a dramatic comeback as Anare Vakasausau scored a crucial try and successfully converted it, sealing the match at 20-19 and earning their historic U19 title.