THE Vodafone Fiji Bati Residents maintained its unbeaten record in the Battle of the Bati after their 16-all draw with the Overseas Bati at the ANZ Stadium, Laucala Bay in Suva yesterday.
It was a tough and physical encounter where spectators were treated to some fine display of talents, crunching tackles and hard hit-ups.
Overseas Bati drew first blood with tries to Levani Tani and Pio Sokobalavu, both tries were converted by Sitiveni Moceidreke.
Fiji Residents winger Richard Fiu scored in the right hand corner, but it was unconverted by Mosese Qionimacawa.
The visitors led 12-4 at halftime, but the local boys regrouped and scored the first try in the second half through Etuate Bola.
It was converted by Qionimacawa.
But the overseas players replied with a try of their own through Mikaele Ravilawa but the try was unconverted.
Qionimacawa replied with a try of his own, which was converted by Kelepi Komaisavou drawing level at 16-all.
Fiji Residents vice-captain Tikiko Noke commended his teammates’ for hanging in there and sticking to their game plan.
“Hats off to the boys for what they have done, especially to the new boys who did a really good job and all the glory is sent to the Almighty God for his guidance, protection and strength,” Noke said.
Overseas Bati captain James Storer said the Fiji Bati Residents players had really improved and this was a positive sign in terms of the growth of the sport.
