Malolo Rugby has made history by clinching their first-ever spot in the Skipper Cup final, triumphing over Nadi with an impressive score of 31-19 during the semifinals at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. This remarkable underdog team showcased tremendous determination and skill, establishing themselves among the elite of Fiji’s rugby sphere.
The match commenced with Malolo taking control, spearheaded by early scoring contributions from Tomasi Tawake, Imanueli Bari, and Semeli Karacia, who collectively secured three converted tries. Nadi struggled to respond, managing only one try in the first half, leaving the halftime score at 21-5 in favor of Malolo. Doglous Daveta, Malolo’s playmaker, was key in orchestrating the game, facilitating scoring chances with his exceptional performance.
In the second half, Nadi attempted to rally but faced setbacks due to handling errors and penalties that disrupted their rhythm. Malolo seized these opportunities, adding another try from Viliame Nalolo and a penalty from Tevita Ledua to solidify their position for the grand final next week.
Malolo’s journey to this pivotal moment has been a remarkable story of resurgence following a lengthy break from competitive rugby. Their impressive return includes a significant upset against the defending champions, Nadroga, where they exhibited remarkable resilience and tenacity. The unwavering support from their community has been crucial, fueling their ascent to a level that many once thought was beyond reach.
As they prepare for the final, the excitement among fans is palpable, with a shared hope that Malolo will continue their stunning journey and claim the championship title. This chapter in Malolo’s rugby narrative embodies the essence of perseverance and serves as an inspiring testament for aspiring players and supporters. The spirit of competition and community pride in Fijian rugby shines brightly, and with Malolo at the forefront, the prospects for the future are exceedingly bright.