The Vodafone Fijiana XV team delivered an impressive performance against Hong Kong China, winning 38-3 in their opening match of the WXV3 tournament. This victory sets the stage for their upcoming game against Samoa on October 12 in Dubai.
Head coach Mosese Rauluni noted that while the first half was sluggish, leading to numerous penalties and possession for the opposition, the team was able to capitalize more effectively in the second half, despite still encountering minor errors that created pressure.
Rauluni expressed relief at the result after recent losses to Scotland and the Netherlands, stating that the win is a confidence booster as they prepare for a challenging match against Samoa. He emphasized the need for strong set-pieces and improved physicality in both ball carrying and defense for the next game.
Captain Karalaini Naisewa reflected positively on the team’s performance and recognized that while they need to address their mistakes, they are familiar with the weather conditions in Dubai, which resemble those back home. She acknowledged Samoa as a formidable opponent and stressed the importance of maintaining high fitness levels for their next match.
Naisewa started Fiji’s scoring with a try as prop Anasimeci Korovata broke through the Hong Kong China defense. Luisa Tisolo missed the conversion, but Fiji quickly built a 10-0 lead following a try from Kolora Lomani. Despite a penalty from Hong Kong China, Fiji extended their lead with tries from Naisewa, Repeka Tove, and Sulita Waisega, with successful conversions by Tisolo, culminating in a final score of 38-3.
In other news, the national under-18 schoolboys team also achieved success, defeating Australia 26-14 in their first match at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka. Their next match is scheduled for 3 PM tomorrow.