Olympic silver medalist Ponipate Loganimasi made an impressive 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 last night, under the guidance of coach Mick Byrne.
Loganimasi came off the bench during the second half, contributing to a strong team performance after a challenging first half, where the score was tied at 10-10 at halftime.
The match began with Japan taking the lead when fullback Seungsin Lee scored a penalty in the 7th minute. Caleb Muntz quickly answered for Fiji with a perfectly executed kick that leveled the score just a minute later. Japan’s centre Dylan Riley then broke through for a try in the 19th minute, giving the hosts a 10-3 advantage after a successful conversion.
Fiji looked to rally, and although inside centre Inia Tabuavou’s attempt was ruled out after a video review, winger Vuate Karawalevu managed to score in the 31st minute, and Muntz’s conversion saw the teams enter halftime at 10-10.
In the second half, Fiji took control, starting with a penalty from Muntz in the 54th minute to lead 13-10. Loganimasi then made an immediate impact, scoring in the corner shortly after his introduction. Albert Tuisue added Fiji’s third converted try in the 63rd minute before Karawalevu secured his second try of the night, set up by flanker Kitione Salawa.
Loganimasi notched his second try, sealing the victory, while Japan received a late consolation try for their efforts.