SUVA kicked off its 97 Telecom Cup campaign with a lackluster 8-3 victory over Vatukoula in rainy conditions at Theodore Park. The match, which drew around 400 spectators, saw Suva struggling to find their rhythm, remaining tied 3-3 with the gold miners until the final minutes when they finally crossed the try-line.
Captain Mosese Taga and his team failed to deliver the expected performance of an experienced side. Vatukoula’s coach, Jo Kenatale, attributed his team’s difficulties to the slippery field, explaining that they had planned to tire out Suva’s powerful forwards but were unable to execute their strategy due to the tough underfoot conditions.
During the week leading up to the match, Kenatale encouraged his players to target Suva’s heavier forwards and work the ball wide. He noted that the recent rainfall contributed to the challenging playing surface, which played into the hands of Suva’s forward-heavy game plan.
Despite the loss, Kenatale commended his younger forwards, particularly Jone Kaila, for their performance and stressed the importance of improving their rucking and mauling skills ahead of their next match against Nadi.
Suva initially took the lead with a penalty from Hughes after Vatukoula was penalized for being offside. However, Vatukoula quickly equalized with a penalty from Filipe Tuilawalawala. Ultimately, Suva secured their win with a try from Inoke Male.
The team line-ups were as follows:
Suva – Taga, Biu, Pickering, Jo Waqavolavola, Osea Waqavou, Soro, Waqanivere, Male, Aminisitai Seru, Hughes, Adrole, Matakibau, Ratulevu.
Vatukoula – Nemani, Usaia, Taione, Vereimi, Paula Hicks, Sele, Jone Kaila, Eddie, Tomasi Raniu, Jerry, Waisea Turaga, Abele Drugu, Penaia, Iliesa, Filipe Tuilawalawala.