MATANGIKI Blues remains atop pool A of the Honiara Rugby Union Association (HRUA) Premier Division after edging a tough Solrais Islanders side 21-20 at Town Ground Rugby Stadium, Thursday.
They led the first half 16-5 from a try and three penalties.
Matangiki maintained the lead in the second half with another try to give them 21 points.
Islanders came back stronger in the second half scoring three more tries however did not manage any of the three conversions.
Their final try came in the final minute giving them their last chance of winning the match should they make a successful conversion.
Matangiki claimed the victory after Islanders kicker David Ma’atonu missed the conversion.
“It’s a very tough match but thank God for protection despite some injuries from both sides.
“We are just fortunate to win today because Islanders is one of the best teams for this HRUA campaign and they proved to be tough.
“We had to maintain a strong mind set towards the end of the game and work according to the game plan we had.
“Both teams had a similar aim and that is win the game so it makes it more tough, “ Matangiki coach Simon Tepuke said.
Despite the defeat Islanders have secured a spot for the second stage and coach Paulo Tikotikoca is impressed despite the defeat saying it is a big learning curve for his players.
“This is a big learning curve for us because this is our first defeat.
“Matangiki a strong team in the competition so we will get the positives from this game and move on.
“We had our chances but because of our own faults, small mistakes that cost us the game,’ he said.
The HRUA competition continues today featuring Flying SOSA and Avaiki 2 for Division A.
By CARLOS ARUAFU
Newsroom, Honiara
