The Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s team faced a tough challenge in the final of the Vancouver 7s tournament, ultimately falling to New Zealand with a score of 41-7. This match was a notable event, as it marked the first Cup final between the Fijiana and New Zealand in the Series’ history.
New Zealand, renowned for their dominance in women’s sevens rugby, took control early in the game. Risi Pouri-Lane secured the first try just one minute in, setting the tone for their performance. They continued to build upon their lead, ending the first half with a commanding 22-0 advantage. The Fijiana did manage to get on the scoreboard in the second half thanks to a try from Sesenieli Donu in the 11th minute, but New Zealand quickly responded with additional tries, ultimately securing their 39th title.
New Zealand’s captain, Sarah Hirini, expressed her pride in the team’s performance, emphasizing their hard work and adaptability. “We played well as a team… I’m just really proud of the efforts of the girls,” she stated.
The Fijiana’s journey to the final showcased their resilience. They triumphed over Japan 28-7 in the semifinals, a significant rebound after a prior loss to the same team during the pool stages. Additionally, they demonstrated their strength in a decisive 46-0 victory against Brazil, highlighting their growth and potential.
While they may not have claimed the title, the Fijiana’s silver medal finish marks a hopeful outlook for the future of women’s rugby in Fiji. Their competitive spirit, combined with strong community support, bodes well for their development on the international stage. Fans are optimistic about how the Fijiana will leverage this experience in upcoming competitions, anticipating further successes in the evolving landscape of women’s rugby in Fiji.
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