A powerful second half performance from defending champions Nadroga saw it retain the Digicel Cup title beating arch rivals Naitasiri 30-13 in the grand final at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka yesterday.
Nadroga skipper Setefano Samoca praised the hardwork of his gallant warriors saying they had achieved what they had set out to do at the start of the competition. Samoca said the win was achieved through the hardwork put in by every player in the team.
"I especially want to thank the players for all the effort they've put in throughout the season," Samoca said.
"I also want to dedicate the win to some of our players, Mitieli Nacagilevu and Joeli Lutumailagi who are injured and also to Timoci Watkins who passed away this year."
Naitasiri captain Jese Cirikisuva was gracious in defeat saying they lost to a better team.
"We gave all our best but were unfortunate we were not able to achieve what we wanted," Cirikisuva said.
Naitasiri made a flying start scoring the first try of the game shortly after kick-off when winger Nacani Wakaya finished off a swift backline move inside the Nadroga 22 metre line.
The two teams went into the halftime break with the hosts leading 11-10.
A strong finish from the defending champions saw them score three unanswered tries to seal victory. Nadroga took home $17,000 for their win while runner-up Naitasiri was awarded $5000.
Scores:
Nadroga 30 (11)
Pen: Jonetani Ralulu (2); Tries: Adriu Delai, Mosese Volavola (2), Setefano Samoca; Con: Jonetani Ralulu (2); YC: Etonia Naba
Naitasiri 13 (10)
Tries: Nacani Wakaya (2); Pen: Kolinio Vunaki