The Flying Fijians showcased their prowess in rugby with a thrilling 29-14 victory over Scotland at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, marking their first home game since 2017. This match drew an enthusiastic crowd of approximately 10,000 fans, including a lively group of Scottish supporters, enhancing the atmosphere of the event.
The match commenced ceremoniously with the traditional sound of a lali drum, setting the stage for a confrontation rich in cultural significance. Scotland aimed to assert dominance early on, with fly-half Fergus Burke successfully orchestrating a try from fullback Kyle Rowe within the opening two minutes, putting Scotland ahead 7-0.
However, the Fijians quickly found their rhythm, propelled by their forwards, particularly Elia Canakaivata, whose relentless energy inspired the team. Despite a shaky start, Fiji regrouped, earning their first points through a penalty by Caleb Muntz, closing the score to 3-7.
Fiji’s captain Tevita Ikanivere then crossed the line for a try near the end of the first half, followed by another from winger Kalaveti Ravouvou, allowing Fiji to take a lead of 15-7 into halftime. This turnaround was bolstered by Scotland’s struggles with discipline, leading to two yellow cards that diminished their effectiveness on the field.
The second half saw Scotland attempt to regain their footing, with Tom Jordan scoring an early try to narrow the gap to just one point. Yet, the Fijians responded decisively. Notably, Jiuta Wainiqolo delivered a standout performance, dazzling the crowd with his dynamic plays and ultimately scoring a critical try in the 59th minute. Fiji then capitalized on Scotland’s struggles, earning a penalty try when Darcy Graham received a red card in the closing minutes, affirming their control over the match.
Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne expressed pride in his team’s performance and preparations leading up to this encounter, highlighting the significance of their home support. Captain Ikanivere acknowledged Scotland’s competitive spirit and thanked fans for their unwavering encouragement.
This victory not only elevates the team’s morale following a challenging season but also builds a hopeful foundation for their future matches. With continued focus and resilience, the Flying Fijians have shown that they can compete with top-tier teams, reinforcing their status in international rugby and fostering anticipation for their next challenges on the field.
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