Vodafone Fiji Bati side couldn’t handle the mighty Cook Islands pressure as the Cooks scored a last minute try to upset the Fijians 24-22.
The Wes Naiqama captained side trailed throughout the match and only took the lead 22-20 when five minutes was left for the final whistle.
The Cooks led 10-0 in the first half as it took time for Fiji Bati to settle down and level terms before the breather.
The Cook Islands started off second half as they did the first and scored their third try to lead 16-10.
A lapse of concentration saw Cooks score another try to increase their lead to 20-10.
Fiji Bati settled late into the match and scored two quick tries to lead 22-20 but couldn’t maintain the lead as the Cooks had other ideas to clinch the winner.
Earlier on...
The Vodafone Rugby League team will be wearing black arm bands in their first pool game against the Cook Islands.
This has been confirmed by Fiji Bati captain Wes Naiqama who said this is a sign of respect for FNRL Chairman Peni Musunamasi's mother who passed away last week.
Naiqama added that the team is focused to win their game against the Cooks and will dedicate the win to the "Mum of FNRL".
Papua New Guinea's 7s Coach Waisale Serevi will be presenting the players with their jerseys after dinner tonight.
Looking at the team to meet the Cook Islands, which consists of five new players namely Kevin Naiqama, Akuila Wate, Mike Ratu, Jone Macilai, Josateki Ravueta, Wes Naiqama (c), Ryan Millard, Osea Sadau, Hamilton Hughes, Iowane Divavesi, Sitiveni Ralogaivau, Lepani Waqa and Jone Waisale.
Fiji's first game is at 3pm on Saturday at the Lloyd Robinson Stadium in PNG.
