THE Fiji Airways Fiji men’s 7s team ended their campaign at the Valladolid Sevens in fourth place after going down 17-28 to Argentina in a pulsating third-place playoff yesterday morning.
Under the guidance of coach Osea Kolinisau, the side stormed out of the blocks with an early converted try to Apete Narogo in the opening minute.
However, Argentina swiftly hit back with two converted tries in quick succession to speedster Marcos Moneta and the hard-running utility, Luciano Gonzalez, in the second and third minutes.
Argentina extended their advantage in the sixth minute when Pedro De Haro crossed and coolly converted his own try.
Fiji responded well with Isaia Rugu touching down just before halftime, narrowing the gap to 12-21 at the break.
Captain Jerry Matana showed great leadership, scoring a vital five-pointer in the ninth minute to reignite Fiji’s hopes.
But Moneta’s second converted try in the 11th minute proved decisive as Argentina held firm for a well-earned 28-17 victory.
Earlier, Fiji had fallen 21-14 to Australia in the cup semifinal.
The Fijians’ attacking prowess saw tries from Kavekini Tanivanuakula and George Bose, but defensive lapses cost them dearly.
Missed tackles, discipline and a failure to create turnovers in the ruck allowed Australia to maintain momentum.
Captain Henry Hutchinson led by example, scoring a brace, with James Turner also crossing for a try.
Australia went on to clinch the title with a 26-19 victory over South Africa in a thrilling final.
It was a joyous day for the Aussies as their women’s team also triumphed, defeating the USA 27-14 to claim the women’s crown.
