The Fiji Water Flying Fijians showcased an impressive second-half display to defeat Japan 41-17, securing their sixth consecutive Pacific Nations Cup title.
Sevens standout Ponipate Loganimasi made a notable debut, contributing significantly by making two linebreaks and scoring two tries within his 24 minutes on the field.
Caleb Muntz, who was named player of the tournament, played a crucial role in the victory with his excellent kicking and game management.
The match began with Seungsin Lee and Muntz trading penalties before Japan’s Dylan Riley delivered a spectacular try in the 20th minute, evading multiple defenders to score after a well-placed chip. Lee converted the try, briefly raising hopes for the home crowd.
Fiji seemed poised to respond in the 31st minute with a try from Inia Tabuavou, but a prior knock-on was detected by the TMO. However, less than a minute later, Fiji scored when Tabuavou’s skillful play set up winger Vuate Karawalevu for a try, leveling the score after Muntz’s conversion.
Both teams went into halftime with the score tied, though Japan was down a player due to a yellow card issued to hooker Mamoru Harada.
Despite being a man down, Japan held their ground, but Fiji’s bench made a decisive impact in the second half. Muntz continued to shine, extending Fiji’s lead with another penalty before Loganimasi scored following a well-coordinated team effort.
Muntz’s conversion brought the lead to 10 points, followed by a try from Tuisue who powered through Japanese defenders and another score by Karawalevu, assisted by a brilliant offload from Kitione Salawa.
Loganimasi capped off a stellar performance with a third try, although Japan’s Malo Tuitama managed to score a late consolation try for the home side.