The Fiji Bati clinched a dominant 56-6 victory on home soil over the Cook Islands Aitu in Week 2 of the Pacific Bowl Championship in an exhilarating showdown at HFC Bank Stadium, Suva.
With fine weather and on excellent field conditions, the Fijians showcased their power and precision, outscoring their opponents with a staggering 10 tries to 1.
Despite an early breakthrough by Cook Islands’ Rua Ngatikaura who crossed the try-line in the 10th minute following a successful conversion by Steven Marsters to give Cook Islands an early 6-point edge, this was quickly countered with Fiji Bati scoring four (4) tries in the second half.
Fiji’s fullback Sunia Turuva scored the first try at the 14-minute mark, sparking a series of continuous drives from the Fiji Bati. Michael Jennings proved to be a standout, securing two tries within 8 minutes (19’ and 27’), complimented by successful conversions from Taane Milne, who played a key role in the team’s conversion accuracy. Fiji took a 24-6 lead into halftime, setting the tone for an explosive second half.
The second half saw an even stronger Fijian offense scoring six (6) tries in the second while the Cook Islands struggled to maintain their defensive form. Fiji showcased a standout performance from Semi Valemei, Ben Nakubuwai, and Maika Sivo, who each added to the try count, further solidifying Fiji’s lead. Jennings added another try at the 60-minute mark, and Sivo’s consecutive tries in the 69th and 71st minutes effectively sealed the game. With eight conversions from ten attempts, Fiji displayed exceptional accuracy, particularly from Milne, who converted six of the team’s points.
By full-time, the scoreline was a resounding 56-6 in favor of Fiji Bati scoring 10 tries and six (6) successful conversions, marking a significant boost in their Pacific Bowl campaign.
The victory not only underscores Fiji’s attacking prowess but also places them in a strong position moving forward in the championship.
The Cook Islands Aitu are left with the challenge to regroup ahead of their next matchup against the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Kumuls in week 3 of the Pacific Championship on Sunday 3rd of November in PNG at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby a 3pm.