LAVENGAMALIE UPSETS 'ATELE

Before the game

Teufaiva, Nuku'alofa- Intercollege rugby commenced it's 2015 season today. As rugby fans from across the nation gathered at Teufaiva to show their support for their teams, many were stunned with an unexpected upset delivered by the boys in the light blue jerseys.
Skipper Kilisimasi 'Akau and his squad ended 'Atele's 18-year winning streak over  Lavengamalie since 1997. This was the outcome of a 18 - 15 win over the Lions from the Fungamanamo'ui. 

Throughout the history of the tournament, 'Atele has been one of the most dominant schools alongside Tupou College, 'Apifo'ou and Liahona. In contrast, Lavengamalie has been on the receiving end of defeats year after year.



During the Game

However, the outcome of the game is defined by many to be a major upset based on statistical analysis of student enrollment, rugby performances and reputation for both schools. The comparison of both schools would be similar to the story of David and Goliath.

Every analysis would give 'Atele the upper hand, but the results of any analysis can only accumulate to draw up nothing more than just an expectation or an intelligent guess on which team should win. But the underdogs from the swampy grounds of Lavengamalie has made a solid statement through a hard fought battle with the fan - favourite from 'Atele.



'Atele showing their respect to Lavengamalie supporters after the game

Both teams put on an aggressive yet peaceful display of rugby both on and off the field. They both payed respects to fans from both sides, then later joined together for a post-game prayer.

After the game, Head coach, Tala'ofa Schaaf, and his coaching team which includes David Mapapalangi, Tokaikolo Latapu and Ben Hur Kivalu,  emphasized to the team that the glory of the win is dedicated to God.

Since the end of the game, Lavengamalie ex-students have flooded social media with their exitement. The news of the victory has been the headlines of their Facebook pages. Today's win marks yet another means of celebration for Lavengamalie as they prepare to commemorate their 35th anniversary.

Lavengamalie delivering their pregame tradition of reciting a memory verse.