Flying Fijians proved too strong for Tonga in PNC
The Vodafone Flying Fijians were too strong on the day defeating Tonga 36-nil in the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup match at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva today.
The Flying Fijians named a mixture of the young and experienced squad and were up against a highly fancied Tongans who had the services of two former All Blacks and a fromer Wallabies star.
In front of the jam-packed crowd, the Vodafone Flying Fijians had a lot to prove and they began in style with a try from Tevita Ratuva in the 7th minute of the play.
Four minutes later Jiuta Wainiqolo bagged Vodafone Flying Fijians second try before center Kalaveti Ravouvou scored on his debut try to give the home side a healthy 19-nil lead.
In the 31st minute, a forward pass avoided Tonga’s try and nine minutes later Setareki Tuicuvu slotted in a penalty as Flying Fijians rested 33-nil at the breather.
There was a lot more for fans to absorb in the second spell, as both teams mounted pressure against each other.
Setareki Tuicuvu extended Fiji’s lead before The Bossman Vinaya Habosi scored his debut try to seal the match.
Vodafone Flying Fijians Head Coach Vern Cotter said it always feels to be back home and winning the matches.
“I would like to thank the supporters who turned out in numbers. We always feel great to be playing at home and displaying a winning performance. It’s the first match and we are aware that the competition is going to get tougher as we progress to next weekends matches.”
Vodafone Flying Fijians captain Waisea Nayacalevu said they are excited to have the result in their favor but at the same time there is a lot to work on.
“We know we did some mistakes on the field. We have to reset and refocus and polish on those areas before meeting Australia A next weekend.
Meanwhile, in the other match, Samoa defeated Australia A 31-26.
In the second round of Pacific Nations Cup matches next weekend at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Samoa plays Tonga while the Vodafone Flying Fijians meet Australia A.