The Vodafone Fiji Bati has defeated the touring British Amateur Rugby League side in the first of the two match series.

Trailing 12-16 at the break, it took the Fiji Bati to score a winning try in the 35th minute of the second half to bag the match by 18 points to 16.

FNRL official Tommy Finau said this was a very closely contested affair, as both teams played really well.

He said Fiji is taking the two match series as a build up to the Pacific Cup that will be held later this year.

The second match between the two sides will take place next Wednesday at Churchill Park in Lautoka.