Moana Pasifika defeated the Queensland Reds 17-14 at Semenoff Stadium in Whangārei, ending their three-match losing streak and achieving a significant milestone in their Super Rugby journey.
Moana was first on the scoreboard with a penalty kick from William Havili, putting them 3 points to nil. The first half was evenly matched as both teams put up a fierce fight for territory and line breaks. Moana's centre, Julian Savea, parked his bus right on the scoreline, giving Moana an extra 7 points with a conversion from Havili, making it 10 - 0. The Reds responded almost instantly with Peni Ravai's try and conversion, reducing the deficit to 10-7 just before half-time.
The scoreboard didn't see change until the 70th minute when Jordan Petaia put down a corner dive try and a conversion, putting the Reds in front 14-10
The visiting team's disciplinary issues got the best of them. They lost two players to upgraded red cards and played with 13 players for the remainder of the game.
Within the dying minutes of the game, Havili breaks through with determination and seals Moana's victory with a score and a conversion of his own try.
Moana Pasifika had a much-needed win, winning 3 out of 8 games. This win can be considered a turning point for the team, as they are slowly building confidence and improving their performance on the field. This is the first time in Moana's history that they have won three games in a season and the first time they have beaten the Queensland Reds. Currently, Moana is sitting at eight on the ladder for week 8.
Looking Ahead As Moana Pasifika celebrated this victory, the team went back to the drawing board for its next match in Lautoka against the Drua after a bye. The Reds return to Brisbane with nothing but to fix their discipline and return to winning ways when they host the Highlanders. The victory is bound to lift Moana Pasifika's standing and team morale, not only of them but also of their die-hard family, friends, and supporters who drove from Auckland to Whangarei to support them.