Jahream Bula stole the spotlight as he propelled the Fiji Bati to a dominant 44-24 win over the Cook Islands Aitu in the Men’s Pacific Championships in Port Moresby. The 23-year-old winger delivered an outstanding performance, scoring four tries, including a remarkable hat-trick in just the first twelve minutes of play, marking his scores at the 5th, 8th, and 12th minutes. He added another try just before halftime at the 37th minute, further showcasing his impressive skills.
Fiji’s offensive display was not solely reliant on Bula, as the team showcased significant depth with additional tries from Kitione Kautoga, Caleb Navale, Kurt Donoghoe, and Solome Saukuru. This versatility highlights the Bati’s attacking capabilities and reinforces their strength as a team.
Brandon Wakeham played a vital role in the success of the match, effectively converting six out of eight attempts, which was instrumental in maintaining the team’s momentum and securing the victory. The comprehensive win reflects Fiji’s consistent progression, especially as they build on their previous 56-6 triumph against the Cook Islands during the NRL Pacific Bowl Championship.
That earlier matchup also featured remarkable individual performances, including a hat-trick by veteran player Michael Jennings, underscoring Fiji Bati’s wealth of talent and depth on the roster.
Following this promising display against the Cook Islands, the Fiji Bati has solidified their status as strong contenders in the tournament and instilled optimism among fans as they prepare for their upcoming matches. This victory not only boosts their confidence but also sets an encouraging tone for the rest of the Pacific Championships.