PNC- Fiji topple Samoa in style

Today’s match was in Lautoka, the drive along Fiji’s glorious coast saw packed truckloads, busloads, van loads and car loads of proud supporters heading to the ground. Fiji has been in heavy rain for the past week, today the skies opened up to pure blue skies and the home supporters were treated to a cracker of a match. The skies were blue, but that is where the blue dominance stopped as the Flying Fijians in their new white tops ruled supreme today.

Right from the start the intensity and ferocious defence was evident and it stayed with us for a scintillating 80 minutes. Fiji had the grunt of the forwards that served them well at the RWC, Kele Leawere tackled, turned men and mauled men like a beast. Aca Ratuva and the rest of the pack also lent regular hands in this treatment. Once the front line was solid the backs were ready to go, Vilimoni Delasau looked scary every time he got the ball and debutant Timoci Nagusa on the other wing scored twice. The match was pure entertainment and tries were flowing for Fiji. Big lock Ifereimi Rawaqa touched down under the sticks and pretty much nailed the game for Fiji with a 31 nil lead.

Samoa strung a series of replacements after 60 mins and this mixed with pride saw them strike back with 3 quick and great tries. The game was done and dusted, but Fiji coach Illy Tabua will be un- happy Fiji didn’t apply more acid to Samoa today. Samoa were outplayed today, but ended the game with great flow and tries and now must feel warm for next week.

The crowd was huge today and cheers, ouches with the big hits and laughter were alive and buzzing in the stadium. Guest of honour was world-beater coach Jake White and he certainly got a feast of Island Rugby today. The final score was 34-17 to Fiji and even Jake could smiile watching Fiji this time, the last time he saw them in France things were a bit more serious for Mr White.