The Fiji Airways Fijiana sevens team has marked a significant achievement by moving up the HSBC SVNS Series points table following their participation in the recent Vancouver Sevens. Under the leadership of captain Sesenieli Donu, the Fijiana team reached the Cup grand final, where they faced the formidable New Zealand squad, ultimately concluding the match with a score of 41-7 in favor of New Zealand.
Before the tournament began, the Fijiana was positioned at 11th place in the series. However, their outstanding performances throughout the event enabled them to climb to the eighth spot on the points table. The team’s journey featured a remarkable 46-0 triumph over Brazil, followed by an assertive 28-7 victory against Japan in the Cup semifinals, showcasing their growing prowess in the sport.
In contrast, the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team, coached by Osea Kolinisau, encountered some difficulties as they slipped from their top position in the series standings. They currently sit in third place, sharing that position with South Africa, while Argentina leads the table with 68 points. The men faced a tough loss in the Cup semifinals against South Africa (10-12) and were subsequently defeated by Spain in the third-place playoff (22-7). This decline underscores the challenges the men’s team is currently navigating as they aim for consistent success on the international stage.
Despite the varied outcomes, the experiences of both teams are emblematic of their resilience and potential. The progress made by the Fijiana team, in particular, represents a promising future for women’s rugby in Fiji, potentially inspiring increased support and growth in the sport’s infrastructure.
Looking toward the future, both teams seem poised for further development and success in upcoming competitions. The Rugby World Sevens Series events on the horizon will present them with valuable opportunities to solidify their standing and continue their journey toward excellence. The optimism surrounding these teams reflects the growing popularity and competitive spirit of rugby in Fiji, fostering hope for greater achievements ahead.
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