THE Fiji Bati Nines team lost its opening match 32-17 against Samoa at the Rugby League Nines World Cup last night.
On paper, Fiji was expected to have a walk in the park but the Samoans proved otherwise with a good performance.
Maika Tudravu scored Fiji’s only try of the first spell as Samoa led 17-4 at the break.
Maika Sivo and Josefa Lawalawa added a try each but it wasn’t enough as Samoa eased to victory.
Fiji takes on Tonga in its second pool match today and a loss will mean we are out of contention for the semi-finals.
Tonga also suffered a defeat against Cook Islands yesterday going down 30-7.