Police secured a narrow 20-19 victory against Army in the Vodafone Sukuna Bowl, held today at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. This victory marked their 34th title out of 66 contests.
The match kicked off with Police establishing an early lead, thanks to a penalty from flyhalf Ponipate Tuberi. Army quickly responded with a penalty from their pivot, Jeremaia Tavai, leveling the score. After Police’s Taitusi Lulusinu was sinbinned for an infringement, Tavai capitalized by scoring another penalty, giving Army a brief lead.
Lulusinu, returning from the sin bin, contributed to a decisive play that led to a try by inside center Kini Douglas, which was successfully converted by Tuberi. At halftime, Police led 10-6.
Tuberi extended the lead early in the second half with another penalty. Army rallied, with former Fiji 7s player Rokoua Rasaku scoring a try, but the conversion was missed. Police responded robustly, with prop forward Inoke Ravuiwasa pushing across the line for a try, which Tuberi converted.
As the match progressed, Army kept the pressure on, with Inia Tawalo slotting a penalty as Police faced infringement issues. In a thrilling finish, Rasaku scored his second try in the closing minutes, but Tavai’s missed conversion held Army back from taking the lead. With the clock winding down, Police managed to maintain possession, leading to a concluding kick from Douglas as time expired.
This win not only showcases Police’s resilience but also highlights the intense competition between the two teams, emphasizing the spirit of the game. As the community rallies behind these local sporting events, such matches foster unity and healthy competition among supporters.
Summary: Police triumphed over Army 20-19 in a fiercely contested Vodafone Sukuna Bowl, marking their 34th title. The match featured strategic plays, missed opportunities, and a thrilling finish, underscoring the vigor of local rugby.
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