The FIJI Water Flying Fijians achieved a commanding victory over Samoa in their first match of the Pacific Nations Cup, finishing with a score of 42-16.
The game kicked off with a swift try by openside flanker Kitione Salawa, putting Fiji ahead just three minutes into play. Samoa quickly countered, scoring a try that allowed them to take a 10-5 lead.
After Samoa added to their score with a penalty kick, Fiji responded with a try from center Iosefo Masi, narrowing the gap to 13-12.
Fiji faced a setback when lock Temo Mayanavanua was sent to the sin bin, providing Samoa with an opportunity to extend their lead to 16-12 with another penalty kick. However, Fiji managed to level the score with a successful penalty kick from flyhalf Caleb Muntz, bringing the halftime score to 16-15 in favor of Samoa.
In the second half, Fiji maintained their momentum, scoring a penalty kick to take a slight lead at 18-16. Salawa scored again, marking his second try after a maul from a lineout, which increased Fiji’s advantage to 25-16.
Fiji’s relentless offense continued with a well-executed set piece play, leading to a try from halfback Frank Lomani after a kick from winger Epeli Momo, with Muntz converting to give Fiji a 32-16 lead.
Fiji further increased their score with another try from fullback Vuate Karawalevu following a line break, extending their lead to 37-16.
Salawa capped off the match with his third try, concluding the game with a final score of 42-16 in favor of Fiji.