Naitasiri will take on Malolo in the final of the Skipper Cup after they edged Tailevu 31-26 in a thriller of a semi final at the HFC Bank Stadium.
Former Queen Victoria School captain and fly-half opened the scoring for Tailevu in the third minute, slotting in a penalty to give his side an early 3–0 lead in the Skipper Cup semi-final this afternoon.
Naitasiri quickly regrouped, securing possession and scoring the first try of the match through their blindside winger, Aisea Tuisese, to move ahead 5–3.
Tailevu regained the lead in the 13th minute when Tabakaucoro successfully kicked another penalty, putting them ahead 6–5.
They continued to apply pressure, adding a try and another penalty to extend their advantage to 16–5 by the 30th minute.
Just before halftime, Naitasiri’s winger struck back with a crucial try to narrow the deficit to 10–16, but Tailevu countered with solid defense and a quick transition into attack, scoring another converted try to lead 23–10 at the break.
Naitasiri started the second half strongly, scoring a converted try to close the gap to 17–23.
Their momentum continued when reserve Peceli Rokotuivatu powered over the try line in the 46th minute, giving Naitasiri the lead 24–23 for the first time in the match.
In the final 10 minutes, French star Virimi Vakatawa created a brilliant play, setting up his winger for a decisive try that sealed the win for Naitasiri, extending their lead to 31–23.
Tailevu’s last penalty didn't help them as they lost 31-26 to Naitasiri.
Meanwhile, giant slayers Malolo have created history by defeating Nadi in the semi final, securing a spot in the grand final for the first time ever.
Naitasiri will face Malolo in the Skipper Cup final next week.
