Vodafone Fijiana XV head coach Mosese Rauluni expressed disappointment after the team’s 17-45 defeat to Manusina Samoa in their recent match. This loss has dropped the Fijiana to third place in the standings with five points, while Samoa has moved up to second with seven points.
The victory was critical for Samoa as they aim to qualify for the Women’s Rugby World Cup next year, following Fiji’s earlier win against them in the Oceania Rugby Women’s Championship in June. In a post-match interview, Rauluni acknowledged that his team was outperformed throughout the game.
“This is our first loss of the tournament after a strong 38-3 win against Hong Kong China last month,” Rauluni said. He noted that despite good preparation during the week, the team failed to execute on the field, missing opportunities and making costly mistakes.
Fiji attempted to mount a comeback in the second half, but Samoa extended their lead, aided by the kicking of Cassie Siataga. Rauluni emphasized the need to review their mistakes, stating, “There are many areas we need to improve upon.” He pointed out that poor game management had been an issue in previous matches as well.
With a crucial match against table leaders Spain on the horizon, Rauluni stressed the importance of addressing their errors. The Fijiana performance included a double from fullback Luisa Tisolo and a try from captain Karalaini Naisewa, with Tisolo converting Naisewa’s try. Samoa, on the other hand, scored six tries, three of which were converted, along with three penalties.
The Fijiana had previously secured a win against Hong Kong China and will face two Test matches against Scotland in England in November.