Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School is set to participate in its first-ever national Vodafone Deans under-18 quarterfinals. This achievement follows their success in reaching the final of the Southern Zone Secondary School Rugby Union- Vodafone Deans competition.
They secured a 27-22 victory over Suva Grammar School in the semifinals held at Buckhurst Park in Suva. Team manager Hotashwar Padarath mentioned that they had met their goal for this year.
“As first timers, we just aimed to reach the semifinal, so the boys were instructed by the coaches to handle the pressure and stick to the game plan,” he said.
MGM made a strong start with two tries from Osea Tuilovoni within the first five minutes and another from Sesoni Tamani 12 minutes later. Ilimo Matadigo successfully converted the second try and added a penalty, bringing MGM ahead 15-0. Suva Grammar’s only points in the first half came from Emilio Qoriniyasi’s boots, trailing 3-15 at halftime.
The second half saw increased competition as Suva Grammar gained momentum, with Matailevu Tuibenau scoring a try just five minutes in. Qoriniyasi added a conversion, narrowing the score to 10-15. MGM responded with a converted try from Joseva Nokelevu, but Suva Grammar remained in contention thanks to a try by Amena Tuivua.
Trailing 17-20, Suva Grammar’s hopes for a comeback were dashed when David Towdah scored for MGM, and Matadigo’s successful conversion secured the win. Despite a red and yellow card against MGM in the final moments, Suva Grammar only managed a consolation try, finalizing the score.
“This Grammar team gave us a tough match, as expected, because they are the traditional powerhouses of secondary school rugby. We are just first-timers, and I’m proud of the boys,” Padarath added. MGM will now face Nasinu in the finals next weekend.