FIJI Bulikula pushed the New Zealand Kiwi Ferns before narrowly going down 12-18 in their first appearance at the Rugby League World Cup yesterday.
The Kiwi Ferns opened the scoring with a try in the second minute, but Fiji refused to be intimidated by the tournament favourites.
The Bulikula fought back strongly, scoring two converted in the first half to take a surprising 12-10 lead into the break.
Fiji continued to frustrate New Zealand in the second half with determined goal-line defence, holding firm under pressure and repeated attacking sets.
However, the Kiwi Ferns eventually found a way through, using a penalty goal in the final 10 minutes to move ahead before adding another try in the last ten minutes to seal the 18-12 victory.
Losana Lutu, and Sienna Laing scored for Fiji, while Tamika Jones was injured during the match.
Despite the loss, Bulikula captain Sereana Naitokatoka praised her team’s unity and determination and said the players had given everything for their families and the people of Fiji.
“I’m so proud. Like we always say, where there is unity, God commands His blessing,” she said.
“And this team, our hearts are united together. Anything is possible with God.”
Naitokatoka also reflected on a difficult late-game moment when she had an opportunity to put Fiji ahead.
“I just kept moving forward and finished the whole 70 minutes,” she said.
The captain said the team’s fighting spirit reflected their Fijian identity, with the players determined to keep pushing for one another regardless of the challenges.
“We’re warriors and no matter how many people are on the bench, we’ll still push hard for each other,” she said.
Although the Kiwi Ferns eventually secured the win, the Bulikula’s performance showed their ability to compete against a leading team in women’s rugby league in their first World Cup appearance.
