Viwa Naduvalo’s landmark 101 try wasn’t just a personal milestone—it was the moment that sealed a thrilling 26-21 victory for Fiji Airways Fiji men’s 7s side in their opening pool match against France at the Vancouver Sevens.
The match kicked off with Fiji showing early promise as George Bose darted over for the first try, though Terio Tamani’s conversion attempt just missed the mark.
France wasn’t going to be outdone hitting back in the fourth minute with a well worked try to Antoine Zegdhar who slotted the extras to snatch a narrow lead.
Then came Naduvalo’s special moment. With power and precision, he bulldozed through the French defence to notch his 100th career try—a milestone that had the crowd buzzing.
But the drama wasn’t over. France fought back hard, with Yerim Fall crashing over before halftime, the successful conversion nudging the visitors into a 14-12 lead at the break.
The second half exploded into a showcase of Fiji’s signature flair.
The ball zipped from one side of the field to the other until Joseva Talacolo sliced through two defenders to put Fiji back on the front foot.
France answered with determination as Nelson Epee crossed to edge his side ahead once more.
With the clock winding down and tension mounting, both teams threw everything at the game.
In the final play, Fiji kept the ball alive, moving it wide until it found Naduvalo once again.
With a burst of speed and sheer will, he crossed the line to score his 100th try—and this time, it was the match-winner, sparking wild celebrations as the final whistle blew.
It was a game packed with passion, skill, and heart, and Naduvalo’s historic try was the perfect climax to a memorable showdown.
