The Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s team made significant strides in the HSBC SVNS Series, marking their first Cup final of the season during the Vancouver 7s after a rocky start. The team’s journey has been characterized by resilience, as they bounced back from earlier struggles in the opening legs of the series, including Dubai, Cape Town, and Perth.
Fiji Rugby Women’s High-Performance Manager Alana Thomas commended the squad’s impressive development, particularly given that many players were new to the circuit just a few months ago. She noted, “Back in December, we had nine new players at Dubai, and only three had prior experience on the 7s circuit. Fast forward three months, and we’ve reached the final of the HSBC 7s. It’s a credit to the players and staff who have worked hard to get here.”
Their journey in Vancouver showcased their ability to regroup after an initial pool-stage loss to Japan. The Fijiana then delivered an outstanding performance in the semifinals, defeating Japan 28-7, with standout contributions from players like Adita Milinia and Sesenieli Donu. This followed an emphatic 46-0 victory over Brazil in the quarterfinals, highlighting their growth and potential.
In the final against New Zealand, the Fijiana faced a challenging match, ultimately falling 41-7. Despite the defeat, this match marked a historic moment as it was the first Cup final between the two teams in the series’ history. The Fijiana team’s resilience and strong performances throughout the tournament signal a bright future for women’s rugby in Fiji.
This achievement is a testament to their tenacity, fostering hope for further successes as they aim for Olympic qualification and continue to develop on the international stage. As they look to build on their recent accomplishments, the unwavering support from fans and the community plays a crucial role in their journey.
Overall, the Fijiana’s journey in the Vancouver 7s underlines the potential of women’s rugby in Fiji and encourages optimism for future competitions, highlighting a pivotal moment in their sporting history.
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