The Fijiana 7s team secured a silver medal at the HSBC Vancouver 7s after a challenging final against New Zealand, concluding the match with a score of 41-7. Despite their previous successes in the tournament, including a significant 28-7 victory over Japan in the semifinals, the Fijiana struggled to find their rhythm in the final, marked by handling errors and ill-discipline.
New Zealand, the top-ranked Sevens team globally, exhibited their dominance by scoring seven tries against Fiji’s single try from Sesenieli Donu. The Black Ferns’ scorers included Risi Pouri-Lane, Manaia Nuku, Stacey Waaka, Jorja Miller, Michaela Brake, Maia Davis, and Mahina Paul. Nuku contributed to the score with a conversion, while Davis added two more.
This result follows the Fijiana’s impressive journey throughout the tournament, notably their previous win against Brazil, where they showcased remarkable teamwork and skill with a score of 46-0. Their resilience was evident as they bounced back after an earlier loss to Japan in the pool stages, highlighting their ability to adapt and grow.
While the silver medal is a setback, the Fijiana’s improved performance signals a bright future for women’s rugby in Fiji. Their competitive spirit, coupled with increasing support from their fans, suggests potential for further achievements on the international stage. Both the Fijiana and the men’s rugby teams’ recent efforts reflect a burgeoning rugby culture in Fiji, promising exciting developments ahead. The community’s enthusiastic backing plays a pivotal role in their journey, offering hope for continued growth and success in the sport.
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