Back on top – Tabadamu wins for late manager

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The victorious Tabadamu team and supporters celebrate after winning the Marist 7s. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU

A memorable win for the Tabadamu rugby 7s team in the 44th Marist 7s as they dedicated their victory to their former manager the late Leo Naikasau Sr.

They defeated a star-studded Police White team 22-19 in the final last night.

The former Tabadamu team manager passed away earlier this year at the Nawaka 7s tournament in Nadi.

He had led the team when they won the Marist 7s for four years in a row.

The Namosi based side played their hearts out because it was final worth dying for and theywanted to win it for their former manager.

Current team manager Ulaiasi Bolalailai said the players had something to play for and they believed they would win it for the late Leo Naikasau.

“We dedicate the win to Leo Naikasau for everything he has done for the club,” said Bolalailai.

“He gave his time to help these boys reach the standard they’re in and also other players that were developed from the Tabadamu Club.

“The players aimed for a win and they had something to play and win for and that was for Leo. That motivated the boys to keep on pushing until the final whistle.”

The Police White scored the first try from Sakeo Railoa and converted by Livai Ikanikoda to take the lead 7-0.

Tabadamu prop Iosefo Masi scored his fi rst try to bridge the gap to 7-5 but Suliano Volivoli scored the second try for Police to extend the lead to 14-5.

Masi then scored his second to close the gap to 14-12 at the halftime break.

In the second half Tabadamu extended their lead as Masi scored a hatrik but Josevani Soro sealed it to a 22-14.

Rusiate Nasove scored a late try for Police but was too late as Tabadamu walked away with $15, 000.

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