The Fiji Water Flying Fijians showcased an impressive second-half performance, overcoming the Rugby Stadium crowd to secure a 41-17 victory over Japan, marking their sixth Pacific Nations Cup title, a new record.
Ponipate Loganimasi made an excellent debut, completing two line breaks and scoring two tries in his 24 minutes of play. Caleb Muntz, named player of the tournament, proved instrumental with his effective game management and flawless kicking.
The match began with Seungsin Lee and Caleb Muntz exchanging early penalties before Japan’s Dylan Riley lit up the game with a brilliant try in the 20th minute. After evading multiple defenders, Riley chipped the ball over and raced to touch it down, with Lee converting to give Japan an early lead.
However, Fiji quickly rebounded. Initially denied a try by TMO Damon Murphy due to a knock-on, they soon leveled the score. After a kick from Japan captain Harumichi Tatekawa was blocked, Fiji’s Inia Tabuavou skillfully set up winger Vuate Karawalevu to score and Muntz converted to tie the game.
At halftime, Japan was down a player after hooker Mamoru Harada received a yellow card. Despite being a man down, Japan held strong, although Fiji saw a try disallowed for obstruction. The Fijian bench made a significant impact in the second half, with Muntz extending the lead through another penalty.
A well-coordinated team move allowed Loganimasi to score a try in the corner, and Muntz’s conversion brought Fiji ahead by ten points. He then executed a remarkable 50/22 kick to set Fiji up for more scoring opportunities.
Soon after, Tuisue scored from close range, and a brilliant offload from Kitione Salawa set up Karawalevu for his second try. Loganimasi capped off his remarkable entry with a try that showcased his agility before Japan’s Malo Tuitama scored a late consolation try, giving the home crowd a moment to cheer.