The Fiji Airways Men’s national 7s team will play South Africa in the final of the Hamilton 7s after they beat host New Zealand 14-12 in an entertaining semi-final match.
The match was played at a frantic pace as both teams tried their best.
Fiji was leading 7-5 at half time.
Josua Vakurunabili scored Fiji’s first try after a brilliant break from Alosio Naduva as Fiji took an early 7-0 lead.
Sam Dickson scored the first try for New Zealand as they reduced the gap to 7-5.
Coach Gareth Baber told the players at half-time to win their kick-off in the second half.
Fiji did just that but gave away possession shortly after and Vilimoni Koroi captailized for New Zealand as he scored their second try as New Zealand took a 12-7 lead.
Mesulame Kunavula scored the winning try and with the conversion successful from out-wide Fiji regained the lead by 14-12.
Fiji’s defence held strong as New Zealand tried to get the winning try towards the end.
After the match, Baber told World Rugby that they want to make up for last week and they always have tough games against New Zealand.
Captain Jerry Tuwai shared his coaches sentiments that games against New Zealand are always tough.
🎥 interview: Jerry Tuwai gives his thoughts after that epic encounter between @fijirugby & @nz7s #NZSevens pic.twitter.com/PDq7tU54RA
— World Rugby Sevens (@WorldRugby7s) February 4, 2018
He says they will now focus on the final and what they can improve on in the final.South Africa overcame Australia in the other semi-final 24-5.
🎥 interview: @Blitzboks head coach @Neil5Powell spoke to us after his side beat Australia to book their place in the #NZSevens final pic.twitter.com/ifrFIYoJuL
— World Rugby Sevens (@WorldRugby7s) February 4, 2018
South Africa overcame Australia in the other semi-final 24-5.
South Africa coach Neil Powell says he is happy with his sides defence and that is what they will rely on against Fiji in the final.
The final will be played at 7.03pm
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