Favourites Tabusoro-Fiji made a perfect start to their Vodafone-Tri Nations 15s campaign at The Swamp in Avatiu on Saturday.

In the opening match of the annual series, the fleet-footed Tabusoro-Fiji team defeated Cook Islands Residents 31-8.

The Fijians scored five tries to one in the victory built on the back of their speedy backline players with bulk of their tries scored by them – including a barn-storming effort by their massive prop Bogitini Tuimereke, who was caught resting on the right wing!

Tabusoro’s speedy winger Peniasi Dakuwaqa scored two tries, including a solo effort, in the win.

The Cook Islands Residents team fought hard throughout and they dominated the majority of the set piece scrum and lineout however, they were unable to string together the phases to build consistent pressure – as Tabusoro disrupted their lineout source especially.

The best and fairest players for the two teams were: courageous fullback Stephen Willis and hard-working loose forward Lee Ponini for the Cook Islands Residents.

For Tabusoro is was their energetic number eight Mika Leawere and their crafty inside centre Joshua Koroi that impressed.

Of special mention was the ‘father and son’ Cook Islands Residents replacement players, local legend Turori and son Troy Matutu.

Tabusoro led 12-3 at halftime.

Ben Koteka, Cook Islands Rugby Union development manager, thanked all the supporters, “thanks to Clive Nicholas and all your helpers and the Avatiu Rugby Club for allowing us to use their wonderful facilities, Tokouso who hosted the post-match kaikai, the match officials, and all those wonderful fans that turned up to support this wonderful regional-level competition that helps to inspire and unify our local Pasifika communities”.

This Saturday the Cook Islands Residents will take on Tokouso (Samoa/Tonga) side at Victoria Park in Tupapa.

Results

Tabusoro-FIJI: 31 (Try: Peniasi Dakuwaqa (2), Joshua Koroi, Bogitini Tuimereke & Nathan Nabou. Conv: Kelepi Komaisavou (3)) Cook Islands Residents: 8 (Try: Maeva Mateariki. Pen: Thomas Daniel)