The Police team has successfully defended the Vodafone Sukuna Bowl, edging out the Army in a thrilling match that ended with a scoreline of 20-19 at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. This victory marks the Police’s 34th title in the history of the competition, which has seen 66 challenges so far.
The match started with a competitive atmosphere, as Police fly-half Ponipate Tuberi opened the scoring with an early penalty. Army quickly responded with a converted penalty from Jeremaia Tavai. As the game progressed, an infringement resulted in Police’s Taitusi Lulusinu receiving a sin-bin, allowing Army to briefly take the lead with another penalty from Tavai.
However, Lulusinu turned from villain to hero upon returning to the game, helping to set up Kini Douglas for a try, which was converted, giving Police a 10-6 lead at halftime. In the second half, the tension rose as Tuberi added another penalty for Police, but Army kept the pressure on, with former Fiji 7s player Rokoua Rasaku scoring their first try, bringing the score closer.
Police prop Inoke Ravuiwasa responded by powering through for another try, which was successfully converted by Tuberi. As the match approached its closing moments, Army’s Rasaku scored a spectacular second try, but Tavai missed a critical conversion that could have changed the game’s outcome. In a final turn of events, Police retained possession after Army’s offside, leading to a potential match-ending kick from Douglas, which concluded the contest.
With this victory, the Police team continues its strong tradition in the Vodafone Sukuna Bowl, showcasing resilience and tactical prowess in a fiercely contested match.
This victory serves as a testament to the hard work and determination of the Police team, reinforcing their commitment to excellence in the sport. Fans can look forward to witnessing more thrilling matches as both teams continue to develop and grow in their future encounters.
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