Moana Pasifika celebrated their first victory of 2025 with an incredible 40-31 win against the Hurricanes, marking a significant achievement for the team this season. This victory granted Ardie Savea a notable triumph over his former team, the Hurricanes, in their initial encounter since joining the expansion club.
Miracle Faiʻilagi emerged as the star of the match, scoring a remarkable hat-trick. His first try came in response to Brayden Iose’s opening score for the Hurricanes, and Moana Pasifika quickly gained momentum. The team showcased robust performance, scoring 28 unanswered points at one point, which included a try from Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa and a breakaway try by breakout star Kyren Taumoefolau.
The Hurricanes struggled to maintain discipline, losing Iose to a yellow card which further dented their chances. Faiʻilagi added to the pressure with his second try just after halftime, giving Moana Pasifika a commanding 16-point lead. Despite a brief rally from the Hurricanes, marked by a try from Peter Lakai, Faiʻilagi’s hat-trick solidified Moana Pasifika’s advantage, with the game effectively out of reach at that stage.
The win for Moana Pasifika is not only a personal victory for Savea but also signals their potential for growth in the Super Rugby Pacific season. This match was a display of resilience and determination that fans and players alike can rally behind, fostering hope for more successes in the season ahead.
In earlier matches, Savea had already begun to leave a mark as captain of Moana Pasifika, indicated by their strong performances despite some tough losses. His leadership appears to be making a positive impact, and this latest win gives the team renewed confidence as they move forward.
As Moana Pasifika continues their campaign, there is optimism among players and fans that they can build on this success, showcasing their skills and passion for rugby alongside the rich heritage they embody.
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