The Vodafone Fijiana XV rugby team delivered an impressive performance against Hong Kong China, winning 38-3 in their first match of the WXV3 tournament. This victory sets a strong foundation as they prepare for their upcoming match against Samoa on October 12 in Dubai.
Coach Mosese Rauluni acknowledged that the team was sluggish in the first half, allowing their opponents too much possession and giving away penalties. He noted that while they improved in the second half, there were still minor mistakes that pressured the team. Rauluni expressed satisfaction with the result, especially after previous losses to Scotland and the Netherlands, as the win boosts the players’ confidence for the challenging game ahead.
Captain Karalaini Naisewa praised the team’s performance and highlighted the need to enhance their fitness levels for the next match. She emphasized that, despite the favorable weather conditions in Dubai resembling those at home, the matchup against Samoa would not be simple, and the team needs to come out strong.
The scoring was opened by prop Anasimeci Korovata, who broke through the Hong Kong China defense for a five-point lead, although Luisa Tisolo missed the conversion. Sevens star Kolora Lomani added a second try for Fiji without a conversion, leading 10-0. Hong Kong’s Fung Hoi Ching managed a penalty, narrowing the gap to 10-3.
Naisewa scored the team’s next try from a maul, with Tisolo successfully adding the conversion, extending the lead to 17-3. Winger Repeka Tove then crossed the try line for Fiji’s fourth try, followed by Tisolo’s conversion for a 24-3 lead. Flanker Sulita Waisega scored another try, with Tisolo converting again, bringing the score to 31-3. Naisewa capped off the match with her second try, and Tisolo added another three points, resulting in a final score of 38-3.
In other news, the national under-18 schoolboys team secured a victory against Australia, winning 26-14 in their opening match at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka last Saturday. They are set to play their second match tomorrow at 3 PM.