THE FIJI Water Flying Fijians avenged their Pacific Nations Cup final defeat to Japan with a hard-fought 34-28 victory at Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium in Tokyo yesterday evening, denying the Brave Blossoms a historic win in their centenary celebrations.
Captain Tevita Ikanivere said the team was determined to make amends for their PNC final loss and spoil Japan’s anniversary celebrations.
“We talked about taking this away from them, so I’m just proud of the boys for the effort they put in today and getting this win,” he said.
Fiji’s dominance at the breakdown proved decisive, with Kitione Salawa and reserve prop Mesake Doge leading the charge against a Japanese side that fought relentlessly until the final whistle.
Doge’s breakdown penalties in the final quarter were particularly crucial, with his effort in the dying moments helping Fiji withstand Japan’s late pressure and preserve their six-point advantage.
The Flying Fijians’ work at the breakdown also caught the attention of Japan coach Eddie Jones, who was surprised by the visitors’ tenacity at the ruck.
Meanwhile, head coach Jake White praised his side’s game management as the side opted to kick for points in the last quarter of the game rather than going for tries.
“It’s not that we just won but how we won. I’m glad the boys understood that we needed good game management to win,” White said.
The victory provides a measure of redemption for Fiji after their PNC final disappointment and offers an encouraging platform as White continues to shape the side’s approach under his leadership.
