A significant error made by scorekeepers during the Vodafone Super Deans quarter-finals nearly resulted in a team being mistakenly eliminated from the semi-finals. The under-18 quarter-final match between Cuvu College and Ratu Kadavulevu School ended in chaos as both teams celebrated the final whistle at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Cuvu College emerged victorious with a score of 23-22, but officials initially announced Ratu Kadavulevu School as the winners with a score of 20-22. Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union president Jone Kanalagi explained that a crucial penalty try was incorrectly recorded as five points instead of the correct seven.
Following the match, FSSRU executives engaged in discussions with the scorekeepers, with Kanalagi demanding clarification on the situation. He noted that after reviewing the score sheet, the error became apparent. To prevent such incidents in the future, he advised scorekeepers not to announce scores unless they were completely certain.
The initial announcement led to an emotional scene, with some Cuvu players collapsing in tears, while RKS supporters celebrated the seemingly unexpected victory, only for the joy to be cut short when officials reversed the decision.
Cuvu College assistant coach Samisoni Navatu stated that the confusion stemmed from their penalty try not being counted correctly, emphasizing that a penalty try should automatically award seven points. Reports indicated that RKS had kicked the ball out, believing they were ahead following the officials’ communication.
FSSRU vice-president Biu Colati was seen addressing the scorekeepers in the control room after the confusion. Prior to the quarter-finals, Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro had underscored the importance of transparency and fairness in officiating the games. RKS, currently under a media ban, has refrained from commenting on the matter.