PHOTO: Tonga national rugby league chairman Hon. Semisi Sika presenting TP$1000 to Vainī Dovesʻ captain. Photo/Supplied
Vainī Doves have won Tonga’s rugby league nine-a-side first tournament for 2015 after beating Matahau Storm 14-6.
The final between the two teams went into five minutes’ overtime after the scores were levelled by a try from Sione ‘Alatini of Matahau and a successful conversion.
However, Doves came out on top after scoring two tries in the extra time.
Solomone Lavaka and Setefano Nau both went over the line with the ball. Their last minute tries meant Doves took home the TP$1000 (NZ$673) first prize while Matahau took TP$800 (NZ$539) as runners-up.
Vainī won a place in the final after beating last year’s champion, Ha’akame Broncos 14-16 in the semi-final.
Opponents Matahau Storm got their chance after beating Havelu Bulldogs 16-10.
A second nine-a-side tournament will start next month.
The tournaments have been set up as opportunities to select Tonga’s team for the Pacific Games in Papua New Guinea in July.
Final placings in the tournament were:
- Vainī Doves
- Matahau Stormers
- Havelu Bulldogs
- Ha’akame Broncos
- Ha’ateiho Crusaders
- Navutoka Cowboys
- Mu’a Saints
