Avaiki convincingly defeated rivals Luapel in one of the best games in the HRUA League at the Panatina Oval on Saturday. The crowd that turned up spoke volumes of what was at stake.
Avaiki started the game with veteran national Douglas Hatigeva playing at half back position. Dougy gave a glimpse of his hey days by breaking through the Luapel defence and off loading to winger Kamukenga to score a try in the first quarter of the game.Avaiki's second try came through the hands of three veterans. Dougy broke through off loading the ball to Keith Namona who then set up Elisha Kaitu'u for a try at the far corner. Douglas Hatigeva showed why he was the best kicker in his prime days kicking successfully to lead 14-0 going into the second half.
Luapel salvaged some pride with Luapel number 10, Keli, scoring a late try in the second half, conversion though was not successful. The game remained 14 - 5 with Luapel having a few chances courtesy of their speedy merchants, but most became missed opportunities. Namona sealed the game with a drop kick minutes before full time ending the game 17 - 5.
In other matches, Green Berets defeated DMax 19-17 while a determined Hammer Heads outfit held off a strong Marist side to win 8-0 registering one try, and a successful penalty conversion.