The Fiji Airways Fiji men’s sevens team secured a bronze medal finish at the HSBC Vancouver Sevens following a dominant 29-10 victory over Australia.
Terio Veilawa launched the onslaught with a brilliantly executed team try in the third minute, before slotting the conversion.
The team suffered a significant setback leading up to the try when captain Jerremaia Matana sustained a match-ending injury after an awkward landing during a tackle. Kavekini Tanivanuakula replaced him shortly after, as Matana was assisted off the field.
Speedster Viwa Naduvalo extended Fiji’s lead in the fourth minute with a brilliant break inside the Australian 10-metre line, scoring between the uprights. Tamani successfully added the conversion.
Australia responded swiftly, with Maurice Longbottom crossing for a five-pointer in the fifth minute to close the gap.
After being sent to the bin, Jayden Blake made amends on his return by scoring another try, leaving Australia trailing Fiji 10-14 at half-time.
Fiji came out firing in the second half, with George Bose crossing after a well-executed set-piece move.
A disciplined defensive effort from Fiji thwarted Australia’s attempts at a comeback, as they valiantly went through several phases before losing possession.
With pressure mounting, Josh Turner and Harry Wilson were both sent to the bin, allowing Nacani Boginisoko and Apete Narogo to dive over and seal a crucial victory for the Osea Kolinisau-coached side.
Meanwhile South Africa are the new Vancouver Sevens champions after a dominant 38-12 win over Spain.
South Africa beat Australia 19-12 in the semi-finals to book a spot in the final, while Spain denied Fiji their third consecutive final with a 24-17 upset in their semi-final clash.
