The Flying Fijians are just one match away from defending their title in the Pacific Nations Cup. Under the guidance of coach Mick Byrne, the team showcased a strong performance, defeating a valiant USA team 22-3 in the semi-final held in Tokyo, Japan, on Saturday night.
Fiji will face the winner of the Japan versus Samoa semi-final, which was played late last night, in the final match set for Sunday in Osaka, Japan.
“Job’s not done yet,” Byrne stated following the semi-final victory. He emphasized the need to review their mistakes and adequately prepare for the final.
Byrne acknowledged the tough nature of the match, expressing that they anticipated a tough challenge from the USA. Caleb Muntz, the Flying Fijians’ No.10, lauded his teammates for their effort, stating, “Credit to the boys for getting the job done. It was tough, but we managed to achieve what we prepared for.” Muntz took over as captain after Tevita Ikanivere received a yellow card during the match.
Muntz and rookie fullback Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula showed promising chemistry on the field, effectively breaking through the USA’s defense. Ikanivere faced early difficulties with several lineout throws not finding their target before being carded for a dangerous clear-out.
Despite persistent handling errors that presented the USA with attacking chances, Fiji’s formidable defense thwarted their efforts as the first half progressed. Fiji’s strong tackles wore down the American team, with the Flying Fijians also gaining dominance in the scrum.
“It’s great to see our players work hard in crucial moments in the game. Especially Elia (Canakaivata), he did a great job indeed,” Byrne praised.
In other news, Tonga secured a positive finish to their competition by extending their winning streak against Canada to five matches in the fifth-place play-off. After a sluggish start, ‘Ikale Tahi, led by player-of-the-match Patrick Pellegrini, found their rhythm and achieved a 30-17 victory.
Tonga’s flanker Siosiua Moala scored the first try early in the match, followed by winger John Tapueluelu, who showcased his talent by evading three defenders for another try. Despite a comeback attempt from Canada, with veteran hooker Andrew Quattrin scoring, Tonga maintained their lead with a try from Josiah Unga, ending the first half with a 19-10 advantage.
Although Canada dominated the second half, they only managed to score once, when Takoda McMullin touched down, unable to break through Tonga’s well-timed defense. Tapueluelu then finished the match with his second try.
“After all our efforts in the last couple of weeks, I think we deserved a win,” said Tonga captain Ben Tameifuna. “The boys worked hard for it. This is a stepping stone for ‘Ikale Tahi – our main objective is the World Cup in Australia.”