SOUTH Africa Women XV held their nerve to secure a close 29-22 victory over the Vodafone Fijiana XV in the second Test at Churchill Park in Lautoka yesterday.
The Fijiana XV made a strong start and took control of the first half, executing their game plan well to lead 10-5 at the break.
Atelaite Buna and Adi Vani Buleki crossed the tryline for Fiji, while South Africa managed just one try through hooker Lindelwa Gwala.
However, South Africa returned from the break with tactical changes that helped turn the momentum in their favour.
Winger Maria Tshiremba proved the difference, scoring a hat-trick as the visitors fought their way back into the contest.
Tshiremba scored twice in the second half, with one conversion, as South Africa levelled the scores at 17-17 after 60 minutes.
Fijiana responded through Salote Nailolo, with Varanisese Qoro adding the conversion to keep the home side in the contest.
South Africa then regained the lead when Vainah Ubisi crossed for their fourth try, which was converted by fullback Byrhandre Dolf.
The Fijiana refused to give up and continued to attack, with Ivamere Nabura scoring their fourth try in the 74th minute.
Qoro was unable to convert, leaving the match still within reach for South Africa.
Tshiremba then completed her hat-trick in the 78th minute, scoring South Africa’s fifth try to seal the 29-22 victory.
South Africa captain Babalwa Latsha thanked the Fijian supporters for their strong backing of women’s rugby.
“Vinaka to all the Fijian fans supporting women’s rugby. We appreciate you all.”
Fijiana XV captain Kolora Lomani also thanked the supporters who turned up in numbers despite the result.
“We thank the man above. Even though we didn’t get the result, we thank our fans for coming out in numbers and also thank South Africa for coming to play with us.”
