Malolo Rugby Club has etched its name in history by securing a spot in the Skipper Cup final for the first time after defeating Nadi 31-19 in the semifinals held at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. The team, initially seen as underdogs, showcased remarkable determination and skill, allowing them to rise among Fiji’s elite rugby clubs.
Dominating the first half, Malolo scored three converted tries from Tomasi Tawake, Captain Imanueli Bari, and Semeli Karacia, establishing a solid lead of 21-5 at halftime while Nadi managed only a single try. Playmaker Douglas Daveta stood out during the match, orchestrating plays and creating multiple scoring opportunities for his teammates.
While Nadi attempted to stage a comeback in the second half, handling errors and unforced penalties hampered their efforts, preventing them from gaining any significant momentum. Malolo ultimately clinched the match with a try from Viliame Nalolo and a penalty kick from Tevita Ledua, solidifying their advancement to next week’s grand final.
This victory continues to build on Malolo’s momentum from prior matches, particularly their stunning upset against defending champions Nadroga, where they narrowly won 23-22 in the quarterfinals. This not only marked a significant comeback for Malolo, who returned to competitive rugby after several years, but also highlighted their growing prestige in Fijian rugby.
As the team now gears up for the grand final, the optimism surrounding Malolo is palpable. The community that supports the club has been a crucial factor in their journey, fueling the players’ drive to excel. With the groundwork laid through hard work and dedication, the possibility of further achievements is within reach for Malolo, promising an exciting chapter for both the team and its supporters in Fijian rugby.
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