Match Report: FIJI Water Flying Fijians Await Finals Opponent
The FIJI Water Flying Fijians secured their place in the final of the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup with a commanding 22-3 victory over the USA in a gripping semi-final match held at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium.
In a game that captivated fans both in Tokyo and across Fiji, the Flying Fijians demonstrated their fitness and team cohesion, delivering a dominant performance that ultimately outshone their American counterparts.
The match commenced with an early lead for the USA as Chris Mattina slotted a penalty in the 3rd minute, putting the Americans ahead 3-0. However, Mattina missed a chance to extend the lead in the 16th minute after another penalty was awarded to the USA due to Fiji being offside.
Fiji’s initial attempts to break through the USA’s defense faced resistance, with Ratu Meli Derenalagi being denied a try in the 20th minute after the ball was ruled held up. Yet, the Flying Fijians showcased their scrum power in the 22nd minute, forcing a penalty. Caleb Muntz capitalized on this opportunity, converting a 46-meter penalty to level the score at 3-all.
The 25th minute saw a breakthrough for Fiji as Elia Canakaivata scored the first try of the match. Following a line-out in the US 22 meters, Canakaivata seized a fumbled ball by the US defense to touch down. Muntz’s successful conversion gave Fiji an 8-3 lead.
The remainder of the first half was marked by solid defensive efforts from both teams, with neither side managing to score further points as the clock approached halftime.
The second half began with Fiji increasing their lead. Vuate Karawalevu and Frank Lomani combined skillfully to set up Elia Canakaivata for Fiji’s second try in the 51st minute. Muntz’s conversion was successful, extending Fiji’s lead to 17-3.
A setback for Fiji came in the 54th minute when Tevita Ikanivere received a yellow card for dangerous play, reducing Fiji to 14 men. Despite this disadvantage, the Flying Fijians continued their aggressive attacking. In the 58th minute, a series of impressive passes between the forwards and backs ended in Frank Lomani diving over the line for Fiji’s third try. Although the conversion attempt was unsuccessful, Fiji’s lead was now 22-3.
The remainder of the match saw both teams battling defensively, with no further points added as they tried to capitalize on opportunities. The final whistle confirmed Fiji’s 22-3 victory, securing their spot in the Pacific Nations Cup final.
Fiji’s number 8, Elia Canakaivata was impressive during the match and was awarded man of the match at the conclusion of the thrilling encounter.
Meanwhile, the outcome of today’s match between Japan and Samoa at 6 PM will determine Fiji’s opponent in the final. The Flying Fijians, who are defending their title from last year, will be eager to face their challenger.
In a match that was played earlier last night for 5th place play-off at the same venue, Tonga defeated Canada 30-17 in a convincing performance.
As the excitement continues, all eyes will be on the final to see if Fiji can retain their champions’ status in the Pacific Nations Cup.