TAILEVU kept its Digicel Cup unbeaten record intact after they defeated a spirited Vatukoula side 26-13 at Ratu Cakobau Park yesterday.
The win also ensured that the Lance Whippy coached Tebara Buses Tailevu side maintains its second place in the competition after three rounds.
Vatukoula had themselves to blame for the loss as they failed to lift their game in the second half after they had made an explosive start.
The heavy underfoot conditions experienced at Ratu Cakobau Park also made things difficult for both teams as they lost the ball forward on numerous occasions throughout the game.
Vatukoula with the inclusion of former Naitasiri number eight Nikolai Baleitamavua had a perfect start to their game as they used some quick rucks to spread the ball wide and stretch the Tailevu defence.
Tailevu fullback Jaoji Dakuvula was on top of his game yesterday as he used his big kicks to push Vatukoula back and he also scored all of his team points in the first half from a converted try and two penalties.
As the game heated up referee James Bolabiu sent Vatukoula fullback and Tailevu prop Mosese Sela to cool down for 10 minutes. Tailevu led 13-10 at the break.
Tailevu scored two more tries in the second half through their forwards as they pushed their way into the opposition try-line.
Tailevu coach Whippy said they still had a long way to go before he can say they played perfect rugby.
Whippy said he was still in a rebuilding phase and hopes to continue to imrpove.