Olympic silver medalist Ponipate Loganimasi made an impressive debut for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians, scoring two tries as the team triumphed over Japan with a score of 41-17 in the Pacific Nations Cup final held in Osaka last night.
Loganimasi entered the game in the second half, contributing to a strong performance by the Fijian squad, which faced a challenging first half that ended in a 10-10 tie.
The match began with Japan taking the lead as fullback Seungsin Lee successfully kicked a penalty in the 7th minute. Fiji’s Caleb Muntz quickly equalized with a well-placed kick just a minute later. Japan’s center, Dylan Riley, added a superb try in the 19th minute, giving the hosts a 10-3 advantage after the conversion.
Fiji was looking to gain momentum but had an initial try from inside center Inia Tabuavou disallowed after a TMO review. However, winger Vuate Karawalevu scored in the 31st minute, with Muntz converting to level the scores at halftime.
The second half saw Fiji take control, with a Muntz penalty in the 54th minute putting them ahead 13-10. Following Loganimasi’s entry, he sprinted to score a try in the corner. Rugged player Albert Tuisue then added a third converted try for Fiji in the 63rd minute, and Karawalevu quickly followed with his second try after a brilliant setup by flanker Kitione Salawa.
Loganimasi capped off Fiji’s scoring with his second try, ensuring the victory, though Japan managed to salvage a late consolation try for their efforts.