The Cathay Pacific/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens tournament at the priceless So Kon Po Stadium in the Happy Valley has long been the jewel on the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series circuit with full stands and a party-like atmosphere.
The COVID-19 pandemic put that on hold in 2020 and last year.
Hence, one of the most popular sporting events in Asia, the long-awaited HK Sevens returns as all 15 participating teams of the current HSBC WRSS, including Fiji, All Blacks Sevens, Blitzboks and HK, will join this massive event.
The last time So Kon Po Stadium hosted the tournament was in 2019 which was won by Fiji as the team made it five wins on the road from 2015-19.
In 2015 and 2016, Fiji beat New Zealand 33-19 and 21-7, and in 2017, thrashed the Blitzboks 22-0.
In 2018, Fiji defeated Kenya 24-12 and then in 2019, defended the prestigious title, beating France 21-7.
We have enough armoury in the tank to win the HK Sevens for the sixth year in a row.
The Ben Gollings and Viliame Satala combo is doing wonders as the side has reached the semi-finals of all the tournaments the duo managed.
Gollings named a solid mix to fly Fiji’s flag in HK. Fiji was the first country to complete a treble in its happy hunting ground, and then topped this history by winning for five straight years.
HK has a special bond with Fiji as it rejuvenates memories of Fijians who shed sweat, blood and tears to the winning podium.
Named are Waisea Nacuqu, Sevuloni Mocenacagi and Josua Vakurinabili, who have been part of our wins for the last five years, while Josefa Talacolo, Jerry Matana, Pilipo Bukayaro, Filipe Sauturaga, Manueli Maisamoa, Iowane Teba, Vuiviawa Naduvalo, Tira Welagi, Josevani Soro and Paula Nayacakalou will make their debut against USA, Spain and Japan.
In 2019, the atmosphere was electrifying and HK was ready for a pulsating final.
The singing of our national anthem brought passion and emotions as Fiji created history by securing its fifth consecutive title with a 21-7 victory over France. Vilimoni Botitu scored the opening try of the match to put Fiji into an early lead 7-0.
He then juggled the ball behind the back of his head and got the offload away to Aminiasi Tuimaba who stretched Fiji’s lead to 14-0 at the breather.
France was awarded a penalty try, and Josua Vakurunabili was yellow carded for a high tackle, but Tuimaba scored his double to seal the win, but he was yellow carded for a dangerous tackle.
Tuimaba received the Man of the Final Award as the team enthralled the crowd.
Fireworks lit the night skies as Fijians celebrated.
