Juni bags Pacific singles title in Fiji

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The National – Thursday, June 16, 2011

PAPUA New Guinea’s top bowler Peter Juni was crowned the new South Pacific Bowling Carnival men’s singles champion after edging Fiji’s top bowlers in Sunday’s final.
Juni upset Fiji’s number one Ritesh Lal 21-15 in the semi-final before knocking off second seed Semesa Naiseruvati 21-11 in an exciting final at the Vodafone-sponsored carnival.
Juni was stuck in a neck-and-neck final with Naiseruvati walked off with F$500 in the final bowl.
Naiseruvati said his last move cost him the game after taking Juni to the wire over the 10 rounds.
“It was a one-on-one tie until the final 10 bowls.
“My final attack went against me and I dropped two fours to Juni,” Naiseruvati said.
“That final move turned the game in his (Juni) favour.”
He congratulated Juni for a tough final.
Naiseruvati was happy with the experience gained by taking on PNG’s top bowler.
“This was a good opportunity for me to play against top bowlers from the South Pacific.
“I am really honoured to play Juni, who is PNG’s number one, and has been bowling for several years,” Naiseruvati said.
“Congratulations to him, it was a huge learning experience for me.”
He said he would be back to challenge the new champion next year.
“Juni told me that he will return next year so I am looking forward to meeting him again.
“I will practise and put in extra effort at training to win the title next year.”
Meanwhile, Litia Tikoisuva was crowned women’s champion.