The Fiji Water Flying Fijians delivered an impressive second-half display, overcoming Japan with a decisive 41-17 win to secure a record sixth Pacific Nations Cup title.
Ponipate Loganimasi enjoyed a remarkable debut, making two line breaks and scoring twice during his 24 minutes on the field.
Caleb Muntz, named Player of the Tournament, showcased his versatility, contributing significantly to his team’s success with flawless kicking and strong game management.
The match began with Seungsin Lee and Muntz exchanging early penalties before a highlight moment arrived in the 20th minute thanks to Dylan Riley of Japan. He evaded three defenders and managed to chip the ball over a covering player, beating everyone to score, with Lee converting the try.
However, Japan’s hopes for dominance waned soon after. Fiji looked set to score in the 31st minute when Inia Tabuavou powered over, but the TMO intervened, ruling out the try for an earlier knock-on. Within a minute, Fiji leveled the scores when Tabuavou assisted Vuate Karawalevu to score following a blocked kick by Eroni Mawi, with Muntz adding the conversion.
The teams went into the half-time break tied, while Japan was down to 14 men after hooker Mamoru Harada received a yellow card. Japan defended well during this period, but Fiji’s bench made a significant impact in the final 30 minutes.
Muntz kicked another penalty, and soon after, a well-executed team move set Loganimasi up to score in the right corner. Muntz’s conversion extended Fiji’s lead to 10 points, and he then executed a stunning 50/22 kick that set up another attacking opportunity.
Shortly after, Tuisue pushed through to score amid several Japanese defenders, followed by an impressive offload from Kitione Salawa, enabling Karawalevu to add his second try. Loganimasi capped his impressive performance with a brilliant try, stepping past a tackle from full-back Lee, before Japan’s Malo Tuitama scored a late consolation try for the home side.