Naitasiri stopped a late comeback from Nadi to retain the Farebrother Sullivan trophy after their match against the Jetsetters finished 25-all in a thrilling encounter at the ANZ stadium.
The Highlanders were lucky to retain the trophy for another week as Nadi player Vatemo Ravouvou missed a drop goal right in front of the uprights in the final minutes of the match.
Naitasiri flyhalf, Waisea Luveniyali steered his team to victory providing 20 points from his boots with four penalties in the first half, two in the second half and a conversion.
But it was veteran Nasoni Roko who set up the winning try for Naitasiri who made a chasing kick for replacement flanker Vilitati Ceguvia who scored the try for the Highlanders.
Nadi scored three tries in the match.
Nadi’s first try was scored after a set piece move from a line-out with outside center Senivalati Ravuwai bursting his way on the tryline in the first half.
Nadi led 13-12 at halftime.
Semi Kunatani scored the second try for Nadi just as the second half started and Aca Simolo scored late in the match to lock the scores 25-all.
Tailevu will now challenge Naitasiri for the Farebrother Sullivan trophy on the 12th of next month.
Story by: Dhanjay Deo
