The Fiji Airways Fiji Men’s 7s team experienced heartbreak at the Hong Kong 7s, suffering a narrow 24-17 loss to France in the semifinal as time expired. The match was a nail-biting affair, with Fiji showcasing strong play and resilience throughout.
Fiji made a promising start with Joseva Taladolo breaking through the French defense to score the team’s first try. However, France quickly retaliated, scoring two tries that led them to a 10-7 advantage at halftime.
In the second half, Fiji showcased individual brilliance, with Iowane Teba scoring to give Fiji a brief lead of 12-10. Yet, France’s well-coordinated teamwork saw them regain the lead shortly thereafter. When Teba suffered a muscle injury, he still managed to pass the ball to Rauto Vakadranu, who equalized the match at 17-17.
Unfortunately, in a dramatic finish, France managed to score again in the final seconds, clinching the match.
Reflecting on previous encounters, the Fiji team had recently secured a thrilling victory over France, winning 19-17 in another tournament. That match highlighted their capacity for resilience, illustrated by their determination to come back after losing their captain early in the game. These experiences serve to amplify the spirit and tenacity of the Fiji team, known for their ability to perform under pressure.
While the loss at the Hong Kong 7s is disappointing, it also indicates the team’s potential for future successes, as they continue to demonstrate grit and skill. Fans remain hopeful as they look forward to upcoming challenges, confident in their team’s ability to bounce back and strive for excellence.
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