JOSIFINI Naihamu rose to the occasion for the Vodafone Fijiana XV yesterday, scoring the decisive try that sealed a dramatic 28-25 victory over Wales in their final Rugby World Cup pool match.
Naihamu, who has been in outstanding form throughout the tournament, said the win was for the fans.
“I didn’t think I would be the player of the match today.
“It’s a big win for us. We gave our all, and we are making our family back home proud. This is for them. Thank you for waking up at home to watch us.”
Speaking at the post-match media conference, Fijiana head coach Ioan Cunningham, who was coaching against his former side, praised the resilience and character shown by his players.
“We set out on this journey to inspire young women and girls to play rugby back at home, and I think the team have done that. I’m so proud of them,” he said.
“We’ve got an incredible group of athletes and players who can do special things on the field.”
The Fijiana made a strong start, displaying their trademark flair and attacking speed to put Wales on the back foot. Naihamu’s first-half try, coupled with a score from Asinate Serevi, gave Fiji momentum. With Merewairita Neivosa adding the extras, they went into the break 14-7 ahead.
Wales regrouped in the second half and mounted a strong comeback through tries from Megan Webb and Donna Rose. The momentum swung their way, and Fiji’s defence was tested repeatedly as the score tightened.
But Naihamu once again made the difference, crashing over for her second try to restore Fiji’s lead. A penalty from Neivosa stretched the margin, but Wales continued to fight, keeping the crowd on edge with their relentless pressure.
The final minutes saw Fiji clinging on as Wales launched one last surge. Despite a disallowed Welsh try and a late attacking wave, the Fijiana defence held firm to close out a famous 28-25 victory one that will be remembered as a statement win for women’s rugby in Fiji.
Fijiana captain Alfreda acknowledged God for the win and said they would return to camp to give praises and honour for the victory.
“Tonight, we’ll sing at the top of our voices. We’re going to sing to give thanks to the Lord for giving us the strength to perform here today, and to thank the audience, the people who came out here to see us play. We really appreciate it. It’s in everyone, so thank you.”
Wales coach Sean Lynn admitted it was one of the toughest defeats his team had suffered at the world meet.
“Our inability to make use of opportunities really cost us. But the way the girls fought back in the second half showed great character. To get themselves back in it was brilliant, but test-match rugby is brutal,” Lynn said.
Wales co-captain Kate Williams echoed the disappointment.
“It is a tough loss to take,” she said.
