Olympic silver medalist Ponipate Loganimasi made an impressive debut for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians, scoring two tries as the team triumphed over Japan with a score of 41-17 in the Pacific Nations Cup final held in Osaka last night.
Loganimasi entered the game in the second half, contributing to a strong performance from the Fijians, who struggled in the first half, ending the period tied at 10-10.
Japan opened the scoring early with a penalty from fullback Seungsin Lee in the 7th minute. Caleb Muntz equalized for Fiji just a minute later with a well-placed kick. However, Japan’s centre Dylan Riley then broke through the defense to score a try in the 19th minute, giving Japan a 10-3 lead, which was successfully converted.
Fiji began to gain momentum, attempting to score through inside centre Inia Tabuavou, although the effort was disallowed after a TMO review. Nevertheless, winger Vuate Karawalevu managed to touch down in the 31st minute, with Muntz converting the try, leveling the match as both teams headed into halftime.
The second half saw Fiji take control, with Muntz kicking a penalty in the 54th minute to put them ahead 13-10 before Loganimasi was called into action, quickly scoring in the corner. Albert Tuisue added another try for Fiji in the 63rd minute, and Karawalevu notched his second try of the match after receiving a great pass from flanker Kitione Salawa.
Loganimasi sealed the victory with his second try, while Japan managed a late consolation score, but the match concluded with Fiji’s commanding win.