It’s only the third month of the year but the world of sports is in full swing. Whether it’s milestones or first hit outs of the year, the weekend definitely served up some spicy action.
SUPER RUGBY PACIFIC: Milestone feat for Julian Savea and maiden win for Fijian Drua
Moana Pasifika new recruit Julian Savea became the all time Super Rugby Pacific try scorer during the match, as he crossed over for his 61st try in his Super Rugby career against the Melbourne Rebels.
It was a rewarding moment for the 33 year old veteran whose career started in 2011 with the Hurricanes. An illustrious career spanning over 10 plus years and many accomplishments, Savea feels honoured to have notched up the try scoring feat while with the Moana Pasifika aiga.
It was also a weekend to remember for Fijian Drua who claimed their first win of the year over defending champions Crusaders. In front of a packed crowd in Lautoka Fiji, Drua drew inspiration from their home crowd and handed the Crusaders their third straight loss for 2024.
The homeside were too strong for their opponents, defeating them 20-10. Halfback Frank Lomani was sensational for his side, leading from the front and running in a try of his own. Lomani says that the win is a “massive boost” for him and his teammates for the rest of the season.
BOXING: Lupesoliai Joseph Parker defeats Zhilei Zhang
Despite being knocked down twice, Lupesoliai Joseph Parker defied the odds and defeated heavyweight opponent Zhilei Zhang.
Parker claimed the interim WBO title as a result of his win, and gave full credit to his team who had helped him be in shape for the tough bout.
“Thank you to my team, this is a great win, I just feel like we are on the up now.”
Since his loss to Joe Joyce in 2022, Parker has made a comeback clinching five wins in a row with a massive victory last year over Deontay Wilder. It also now takes his career record to 35-3.
With a rematch with Zhang lined up, Parker says he is grateful for the journey he has gone through since his last loss.
“It’s an incredible feeling coming back from that loss and now look where we are.”
Parker returned home to New Zealand on Monday morning to celebrate with his family and close friends.
NRL: 150 NRL games for Panthers forward Moses Leota
Defending NRL champs Penrith Panthers kicked off their season with a loss to the Melbourne Storm on the weekend. The defending champs were held scoreless for the whole match by the Storm and looked a bit lacklustre for the majority of the game.
But it wasn’t all negative for the Panthers, as powerhouse forward Moses Leota celebrated his 150th NRL game. Earlier in the week, Leotas partner Stella presented his 150th jersey alongside their two daughters.
Leota who is one half of the iconic forwards duo “Bashin Bros” has been a key figure in the clubs three peat champion success. He has also made an impact on the international stage representing both Samoa and New Zealand.
KILIKITI SAMOA: Kilikiti Samoa held at Basin Reserve for the first time ever.
Known for hosting some of cricket’s top stars, the Basin Reserve in Wellington is one of New Zealand’s finest cricket pitches.
On Saturday, history was made at the ground when Kilikiti Samoa also known as Samoan cricket took place on it.
The vibrant bright uniforms of the four teams in attendance shone bright at the Basin, as songs and chants echoed across the stadium and seats.
One of the teams taking place was the recent established kilikiti club Valley Bears who participated in their blue and orange colours.
