Ratu Navula creates history winning Deans title

Ratu Navula College has created history in the Coke Zero Deans under 18 final by being the first Western Division school to lift the Deans trophy after beating Queen Victoria School 19-16 in a nail biting encounter.

In a very intense match from the kick off, QVS drew first blood after a penalty in the first few minutes of the game to take the lead 3-0.

Ratu Navula hit back with a converted try to flanker Vasikali Mudu to take the lead 7-3.

Ratu Navula was reduced to 14 men after their fullback was yellow carded.

QVS took advantage of this and closed the gap to one point.

Playing with 14 men, Ratu Navula was not deterred by this as they scored another converted try to flanker Vasikali Mudu to take a 14-6 halftime lead.

Both teams started strong in the second half as QVS closed the gap to 5 points with a penalty.

Ratu Navula’s replacement hooker Poasa Driu scored their third try to extend their lead to 19-9 with 10 minutes remaining.

With less than 5 minutes left, QVS captain Mesulame Dolokoto crossed over the try line to narrow the gap to 19-16.

But Ratu Navula held their composure and kept the pressure on OVS to win the match.

Ratu Navula skipper Viliame Ravouvou said his message to his players during the match was to shut QVS out. Ravouvou said the also dedicate this win to all their supporters.