Fijiana XV head coach Ioan Cunningham said his side must learn to produce more of the bright moments they showed in their opening Women’s Rugby World Cup clash, despite falling 7-65 to Canada.
“I am extremely proud of the players. We showed what we can do with the try that we scored.
“We probably didn’t put enough of those moments together, but congratulations to Canada. They showed why they are the second-best team in the world,” Cunningham told Sportsbeat.
Fijiana’s highlight came early in the second half when Kolora Lomani finished off a sweeping counterattack.
The move began with Josifini Neihamu’s strong break before skipper Alfreda Fisher’s deft pass set Lomani free to dive over, scoring arguably the try of the game.
That effort gave Cunningham belief, though Canada’s power and pace soon proved decisive. Full-back Julia Schell scored six tries as the North Americans ran away with the contest, while Bulou Vasuturaga’s late red card compounded Fijiana’s struggles.
Cunningham, however, remained upbeat.
“We will have a good, honest review. All that matters is what we discuss within our team. We need to learn quickly and sort it out. Massive thank you to York the welcome and support were excellent. We look forward to moving to Manchester next week,” Cunningham said.
Captain Fisher echoed her coach’s sentiments, admitting discipline let them down but vowing the side will respond.
“I want to thank the girls for the effort. It was a tough match but it will be a good lesson for us.
“Scotland next week and then Wales,” Fisher said.
Canada had already secured a bonus-point lead by the 28th minute, crossing four times to lead 24-0 at halftime.
Fijiana’s spirited spell after the break lifted the crowd, but Canada’s class told in the closing stages as they underlined their world No.2 ranking.
Fijiana will face Scotland in their second pool match this Sunday.