Nadi has emerged victorious in the Skipper Cup under-20 tournament, narrowly defeating Naitasiri 29-28 in a gripping final held at HFC Stadium in Suva. This victory signifies another disappointment for Naitasiri, which also faced defeat in last year’s final against Nadroga.
The match was filled with tension right from the beginning, as Nadi raced ahead with an early unconverted try followed by a penalty kick, creating an eight-point lead. However, Naitasiri quickly turned the momentum in their favor, energized by the support of their home crowd. They managed to score three converted tries, taking a significant 21-8 lead by halftime.
Naitasiri’s discipline faltered in the second half when two players received yellow cards simultaneously, significantly impacting their performance. This opportunity allowed Nadi to capitalize, scoring two converted tries and adding another later in the match.
Despite a determined late effort from Naitasiri, they were unable to change the outcome, resulting in Nadi claiming the title. This year’s Skipper Cup final has again highlighted the thrilling nature of Fijian rugby, demonstrating the skill and resilience found within the teams. With both Nadi and Naitasiri showcasing their grit, fans can look forward to an exciting season filled with remarkable matches and fierce competition in Fiji’s rugby scene.