A wonderful day full of Fijian flavour, absorbing rugby and a banquet to die for we're all on offer at Larkin Oval on Saturday where the Bulls came storming home to defeat the 2018 premiers 31-24.
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The Pumas had two tries on the board early in the first half as mistakes by the Bulls gave the visitors good field position and they capitalised.
Sikeli finally crashed over to see the Bulls edge closer, the conversion successful and at 12-7 both defences held firm for an extended period with Nelson, Ledua and Currans having big games.
The Pumas obviously wanted to reverse their first round loss, and just before half time added another try to go out to a 19-7 lead before a penalty was converted by Bonello to see the score 19-10.
The Bulls went into half time under pressure but the wind would favour them in the second period.
A couple of positional changes forced by injuries brought Matty Sheather into the game and he added a new dimension in attack.
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Not to be outdone Cosgrove went over for Warren and at 24-10 , more than wind was required to get the boys home.
Coincidentally, with the introduction of veteran Fijian centre Joney, Warren opened up to see Christo and Jayden Bonnello both cross the line and the resurgent Bulls were suddenly back in the game at 24-24 seven minutes to go.
With fatigue setting in on both sides due to the bruising nature of the game, it took a brilliant team play to see Brendan Nelson complete an outstanding game and score the match winning try.
Players on both sides gave their all and produced a great spectacle for the large crowd in attendance.
Bonello with a try, four goals and a penalty conversion had a great game, Ledua, Netava, Sikeli and Joney all lifted on our Fiji charity day and inspired their mates to see the Bulls retain top spot on the Western Plains ladder.
An entertaining second grade match followed, Warrens experience too much for the Bulls allstars and when the game was called off after what appeared a serious injury to Bulls player, Warren lead 20-7 .
Kel Martin was having another top game, Deano Jeffery was everywhere, Luke Healey looked like he'd never been away from the game let alone four years, while Leroy Wright is turning into something of a prop, and will not be long before he is in the top grade.
Players player to wild child Matty Elias who threw his body on the line time and time again.
Following a traditional Fijian hangi and spit roast banquet , a successful jumper auction by Simon Bell and Peter Hargreaves, raised a substantial amount for a charity cause in Fiji.
The night was completed with copious amounts of Kava being consumed and the whole day was one of the highlights of my time at the mighty Bulls.
Next week we venture north to Brewarrinna.
