Tailevu is the new title holder of the HFC Bank Bainimarama Shield Challenge after defeating champions Northland 11-7 at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori last night.

In a grueling first half, Tailevu was able to add points to the table in the last minute by lanky fly half Etonia Rokotuiwasa.

Two penalty kicks which was awarded to Northland were unsuccessful and Sakaraia Rokotabutabu also given a yellow card for a late tackle.

Tailevu took the lead 3-0 at half time.

Tailevu came firing in the second half as Inoke Leweni scored a try in less than five minutes into the game adding on to their advantage 8-0 to Tailevu on the points table.

Several attempts made by Northland to score were unsuccessful until they were awarded a penalty try. The scores stood at 8-7 to Tailevu.

Seven minutes away from full time a hat trick performance by Etonia Rokotuiwasa’s drop goal enabled Tailevu to proceed as the new champions of the Bainimarama Shield with the final scores 11-7.

Tailevu Team Manager, Levani Matea says they have studied their opponents well and know what area they need to work on to win the game.

“This is the third time we have met. In our last two encounters we know their strength and there’s a plan put in place by our coaching staff by our capable coach and that’s why when we came in today we know we going to defeat them.”

Tailevu walked away with two-thousand dollars prize money and Autiko Domonikibau was awarded the man of the match.

Meanwhile, Naitasiri will host Nadroga in the second Farebrother Challenge at 3pm today at Nausori’s Ratu Cakobau Park.

You can catch the live commentary of the match on Radio Fiji One.