Olympic silver medalist Ponipate Loganimasi excelled in his debut for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians, scoring two tries as the team defeated Japan 41-17 in the Pacific Nations Cup final held in Osaka.
Loganimasi, who entered the game in the second half, contributed to a strong performance from the Fijians, who faced a tough challenge in the first half and were tied 10-10 at halftime.
Japan opened the scoring with a penalty from fullback Seungsin Lee in the 7th minute, but Caleb Muntz quickly equalized for Fiji with a well-placed kick. Japan’s Dylan Riley then broke through to give his team a 10-3 lead in the 19th minute with a converted try.
Fiji looked to level the score with a try from inside centre Inia Tabuavou, but it was disallowed following a review. However, winger Vuate Karawalevu found the try zone in the 31st minute, and Muntz’s conversion left the teams tied at the break.
In the second half, Fiji took control, starting with a penalty from Muntz in the 54th minute that put them ahead 13-10. Loganimasi soon made his mark, scoring a try in the corner.
Fiji continued to dominate, with rugged forward Albert Tuisue scoring their third converted try in the 63rd minute, followed by Karawalevu’s second try, set up by flanker Kitione Salawa.
Loganimasi added his second try, sealing the victory for Fiji, while Japan managed to score a late consolation try, acknowledging their fighting spirit.