The McDonald’s Mike Friday 7s Select team began their Coral Coast 7s campaign with a convincing 26-12 victory over the Devo Barbarians at Lawaqa Park today. The match showcased a talented roster, including rugby stars Jerry Tuwai, Harry McNulty, and South Africa’s Rosco Speckman, who captivated the crowd despite a rocky start.

The Babas drew first blood with a try from former Fiji 7s player Dan Yaya. However, the McDonald’s team quickly responded, with Tuwai and Iowane Teba each scoring to take a 12-7 lead at halftime. The second half saw McNulty scoring right after the restart, followed by Teba’s second try, which, along with two conversions, sealed the match for the Select team. A consolation try from Phil Scott for the Babas made the final score 26-12.

This victory is particularly significant as the McDonald’s Mike Friday 7s Select team is composed of both seasoned and emerging talents, strategically assembled to showcase their skills on this competitive stage. The recent roster changes, where three players were swapped with national squad members, display a commitment to both performance and cohesion, promising an exhilarating journey through the tournament.

The Coral Coast Sevens not only highlight the thrilling talents of established players but also present young athletes with invaluable opportunities to learn and grow in a competitive environment. With the tournament set to continue, fans are encouraged to support their teams and celebrate the dynamic spirit of rugby.