Olympic silver medalist Ponipate Loganimasi had a spectacular debut for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians, scoring two tries as the team triumphed over Japan 41-17 in the Pacific Nations Cup final held in Osaka last night.
Loganimasi entered the match as a substitute in the second half, joining a strong Fijian squad that faced significant challenges in the first half, which ended in a 10-10 stalemate.
Japan began the scoring with a penalty from fullback Seungsin Lee in the 7th minute, but Fiji’s Caleb Muntz quickly equalized with a well-executed kick just a minute later. Japan’s center Dylan Riley then broke through to score, giving the hosts a 10-3 lead in the 19th minute after a successful conversion.
Fiji attempted to respond with a try from inside center Inia Tabuavou, but it was disallowed following a TMO review. However, winger Vuate Karawalevu successfully crossed the line in the 31st minute, and Muntz’s conversion brought the teams to an even score at halftime.
The Fijians dominated the second half, with Muntz landing a penalty in the 54th minute for a 13-10 lead before Loganimasi burst onto the scene, scoring in the corner shortly after his introduction.
Fiji continued to capitalize on their momentum, with Albert Tuisue scoring the team’s third converted try in the 63rd minute. Karawalevu then secured his second try of the night after a skillful setup by flanker Kitione Salawa.
Loganimasi completed his impressive performance with a second try, solidifying Fiji’s victory, while Japan managed to score a late consolation try to reflect their tenacity in the match.