The Vodafone Fijiana XV team delivered an impressive performance against Hong Kong China, winning the match 38-3 in their opening game ahead of their next WXV3 encounter against Samoa on October 12 in Dubai.
Coach Mosese Rauluni noted that the team struggled during the first half, providing their opponents with possession and giving away penalties. However, he acknowledged that they managed to capitalize more effectively in the second half, despite some minor errors putting them under pressure.
Rauluni expressed satisfaction with the outcome against Hong Kong China, especially following their recent Test match defeats to Scotland (15-59) and the Netherlands (10-12). He emphasized that the victory had bolstered the players’ confidence as they prepare for a challenging match against Samoa in two weeks. He highlighted the need for strong set-pieces and improved physicality in ball carries and defense to succeed.
Team captain and double try scorer Karalaini Naisewa praised the team’s performance and noted that the weather conditions in Dubai are similar to those at home. She stressed the importance of addressing their mistakes ahead of the game against Samoa, recognizing it as a tough match that requires them to come out strong. Naisewa also highlighted the need for improved fitness among players to secure victory in the upcoming match.
Fiji’s first try came from prop Anasimeci Korovata, who powered past the Hong Kong China defense, giving Fiji an early 5-0 lead, although Luisa Tisolo missed the conversion. Sevens star Kolora Lomani followed with the second try from a well-executed attack, pushing the lead to 10-0 before Fung Hoi Ching of Hong Kong China managed to kick a penalty, bringing the score to 10-3.
Naisewa then scored from a maul, with Tisolo converting the try to extend the lead to 17-3. Winger Repeka Tove added a fourth try for Fiji, with Tisolo converting again to make it 24-3. Flanker Sulita Waisega also crossed the line, leading to another successful conversion from Tisolo, bringing the score to 31-3. Naisewa capped off the scoring with her second try, as Tisolo added three more points, concluding the match at 38-3.
In another event, the national under-18 schoolboys team triumphed over Australia with a 26-14 victory in their first match at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka last Saturday. They are set to play their second match tomorrow at 3 pm.