The Fiji Airways Fijiana women’s sevens team faced a challenging start at the HSBC Dubai 7s, concluding the pool stage with three defeats. They were placed in Pool A alongside formidable teams: Ireland, Australia, and China.
In their opening match against Ireland, the Fijiana put forth a valiant effort but ultimately fell short with a score of 12-30. Vika Nakacia and Ilisapeci Delaiwau each scored tries, contributing to the team’s points, although they struggled with conversions. Their subsequent game against Australia was particularly tough, resulting in a 7-42 defeat, with Nakacia scoring the team’s only try in the early stages.
Things did not improve in their final group match against China, where they suffered a narrow 14-15 loss despite notable performances from Adimereani Rogosau and Silika Galo, who fought hard to maintain a competitive scoreline. Unfortunately, this series of losses placed them at the bottom of the pool, eliminating them from contention for the cup quarter-finals.
Looking ahead, the Fijiana team is set to face China once more in the ninth-place semi-final, providing them with an opportunity for redemption. Interim coach Timoci Volavola had expressed a desire for sustained support from fans, especially during this difficult period marked by several losses in the past year.
On a brighter note, the men’s team saw success, winning all their matches in Pool C against Spain, New Zealand, and the United States, showcasing the strength and potential of Fiji’s rugby program.
While the Fijiana’s journey has been tough at the moment, it serves as a reminder of the challenges teams often face in sports. With dedication and ongoing support from their supporters, there is hope for improvement as they continue to develop and prepare for future competitions. The lessons learned from this experience could fuel their drive and resilience for the upcoming games.
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