The Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s team maintained its unbeaten start at the Bordeaux 7s, defeating Great Britain 26-12 in its second pool match to make it two wins from two in France.
Fiji struck first through Filipe Sauturaga, who capitalised on a knock-on to race away for the opening try and hand his side an early advantage.
The Fijians looked set to extend their lead moments later when George Bose released Kavekini Tanivanuakula for what appeared to be a second try, but the effort was disallowed after officials ruled the final pass forward.
Great Britain fought back and crossed late in the first half to level the scores, but Fiji responded immediately through Apete Rarogo, who scored two crucial tries to restore control and give his side a 14-7 halftime lead.
Bose then got on the scoresheet early in the second spell as Fiji continued to execute coach Osea Kolinisau’s game plan and stretch the British defence.
The match briefly swung in Great Britain’s favour when Rarogo was shown a yellow card for a dangerous tackle. With Fiji down to six men, the British capitalised on the numerical advantage to narrow the gap.
However, Fiji regained control once Rarogo returned to the field.
The winger completed a memorable performance by scoring his third try of the match in the closing stages, sealing a convincing 26-12 victory and keeping Fiji firmly on course for the Cup quarter-finals.
The win follows Fiji’s opening-round success and leaves the national side well placed heading into its final pool match against Brazil at 11.32pm tonight.
The men’s Cup quarter-finals are scheduled to begin at 3.28am tomorrow, with the tournament final set for 3.41am on Monday.
