The Vodafone Fijiana XV team delivered an impressive performance against Hong Kong China, winning 38-3 in their WXV3 tournament opener, setting a solid foundation for their upcoming match against Samoa on October 12 in Dubai.
Coach Mosese Rauluni noted that the team struggled in the first half, allowing their opponents too much possession and conceding several penalties. However, he felt they capitalized better in the second half, despite some lingering mistakes that added pressure.
Rauluni expressed satisfaction with the victory, especially following back-to-back Test match losses to Scotland and the Netherlands. He believes the win has boosted the players’ confidence as they prepare for the challenge posed by Samoa in two weeks. He emphasized the need for improved set-pieces and greater physicality in defense and ball-carrying.
Captain and double try-scorer Karalaini Naisewa reflected positively on their performance, acknowledging the familiar weather conditions in Dubai and emphasizing the need to rectify errors before the upcoming match. She recognized that facing Samoa will be tough and stressed the importance of coming out strong and enhancing the team’s fitness to secure victory.
Fiji’s first try came from prop Anasimeci Korovata, who pushed through the Hong Kong defence to secure an early lead, followed by a second try from sevens star Kolora Lomani. Hong Kong managed to score a penalty through fly-half Fung Hoi Ching, but Fiji responded with a series of tries, including two from Naisewa and contributions from Repeka Tove and Sulita Waisega. Luisa Tisolo played a crucial role in converting several tries, leading to the final score of 38-3.
In other news, the national under-18 boys’ team secured a 26-14 victory against Australia in their first match at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka, last Saturday. They are set to play their second match at 3 PM tomorrow.