Taula Original Apia and Frankie Falealili have secured their spot in the finals of the National Provincial Cup after upsetting their opponents on Saturday. 

Falealili was the first team to secure their spot after defeating Faasaleleaga in their semi-final, 42 - 22. While Apia won a nail-biting match against Aleipata, 22 - 20. 

In the last semi-final of the day at the HPU field, Aleipata was the first to put their name on the scoreboard with a successful penalty by Faafoi Falaniko in the first five minutes of the match. Leading 3 - 0.

Within the 10 minutes of the match, Apia responded back with a try to Apia captain Itifusi Matamu in the left cormer, unfortunately their conversion by David Tavita was unsuccessful. 

A few minutes passed, and Apia attacked again with Malaesaili Elato running from the 22, passing three defenders before offloading to Dan Patelesio for the try. David secured another two points with a successful conversion, extending their lead to 12 - 3.

A sin bin was given to the Apia captain, Itifusi, for a high tackle. This gave a momentary advantage to Aleipata.

Using the one man advantage, Kelekolio Lauvao scored Aleipata's first try. Aleipata saw an advantage on the blindside and used it well. Unfortunately, Falaniko was unable to add the extra two, and Apia still led 12 - 8 at the break. 

Within the first 10 minutes of the second half, Tusitafu Toilolo made a quick tap and ran straight for the try line giving Aleipata a much-deserved try. Despite an unsuccessful conversion, Aleipata went into the lead 13 - 12.

Apia responded with a try by Anasii Vaai, with David adding the extra two with his conversion, taking the lead back from Aleipata, 19 - 13. However, Aleipata replied back with another try from Malakesi Masefau, and Falaniko added the extra two and led Apia, 20 - 19.

In the last five minutes of the match, a penalty was awarded to Apia and they opted to kick for goal. David Tavita successfully landed the penalty, taking the scores to 22 - 20 in favour of Apia. That's how the scores stood until the final whistle.

Apia assistant coach Pesamino Paiti said winning the match on Saturday was a testament to their hard work and sweat throughout the week.

"We give all glory to God for the strength and talent, He has blessed our boys with. Reaching the final is a testament to their resilience and faith. It’s been a challenging journey—especially in the early stages, trying to organise and pull together a full squad—but through perseverance and unity, we managed to overcome. We’re grateful for the hard-fought win against a tough Aleipata side," he said.