In a heart-stopping conclusion to the day’s finals at HFC Bank Stadium, Nadi has snatched victory from the jaws of defeat, overcoming a significant halftime deficit to defeat Naitasiri 29-28 in a spectacular display of resilience.
The match served as a tale of two halves, with Naitasiri dominating the first period before Nadi mounted a stunning second-half comeback to claim the title.
Nadi started steadily, with flyhalf Waisale Rokomatu slotting a penalty in the 4th minute. The lead was extended when prop JD Kanth crashed over for a try, giving the western side an 8-0 advantage.
However, Naitasiri soon awoke, unleashing a devastating 20-minute blitz before halftime. Halfback Maleli Ralulu, hooker Kelemete Ligairi, and number 8 Andrea Ramabuke all scored tries in a commanding display. With fullback Samuela Rogoci converting all three, Naitasiri stormed into the break with a commanding 29-8 lead.
The second half belonged entirely to a resurgent Nadi. Displaying immense character, they chipped away at the deficit with relentless pressure. Hooker Josua Uluibau scored in the 50th minute, followed shortly by a second try from the powerful prop JD Kanth. With Rokomatu converting both, the gap closed to just seven points.
The comeback was completed in the 60th minute when replacement winger Joseph Tavai crossed the line. Rokomatu’s successful conversion tied the scores, setting up a tense final quarter.
In a dramatic finish, Naitasiri managed a late try through prop Joshua Emosi in the 78th minute, with Rogoci’s conversion putting them ahead 28-26. But it was Nadi who had the final say, scoring one last time to seal an unforgettable 29-28 victory.
A relieved and proud Nadi Coach, Aca Bibi, credited his team’s composure and strategic adjustments for the hard-fought win.
“We had to play smart going into the match today against a talented Naitasiri side,” Bibi stated.
He revealed that the victory was built on fine-tuning their game plan. “From our work-ons from last week, we just made a few changes – small changes to come to the finals,” said Bibi.
The coach also highlighted the talent within his squad as a key factor. “There’s a few good boys in the team that have a clear pathway, and we are fortunate to have them with Nadi Rugby to take us to the finals.”
The match provided a fittingly dramatic end to a day of high-stakes rugby, cementing Nadi’s place as champions after a comeback for the ages.