The Fiji Airways Men’s National Sevens team is set to face Argentina in the quarterfinal of the Rugby World Cup Sevens after defeating Japan 35‑10 in their knockout match of the Rugby World Cup Sevens at AT&T Park in San Francisco.
Japan won the physical battle in the first half after dominating the breakdowns to win penalties.
Japan’s Kameli Soejima drew first blood scoring in the second minute of first half and their second try was scored by Jose Seru.
It was the physicality and dominance of the players of Fijian heritage in the Japanese side that starved Fiji of possession and allowed Japan to lead 10-7 at half time.
Fiji’s try in the first half was scored by Semi Kunatani.
Coach Gareth Baber’s starting line up which included Paula Dranisinukula, Kalione Nasoko, Semi Kunatani, Josua Tuisova, Jerry Tuwai, Sevuloni Mocenacagi and Vatemo Ravouvou did not meet expectations in the first half.
In the second half, Leone Nakarawa, Amenoni Nasilasila, Jasa Veremalua and Alasio Naduva helped Fiji jump back and take control of the game as expected.
Captain Jerry Tuwai kicked off Fiji’s comeback in the second half through a brilliant individual effort try.
It was in the 4th minute of the second half when Fiji became comfortable on the field giving Josua Tuisova his first try of the tournament.
This was then followed by a Semi Radradra try which set up by a no look pass from Leone Nakarawa.
The game ended on the highest note when Jasa Veremalua scored from the kick off at full time.
All of Fiji tries were converted by Vatemo Ravouvou and Amenoni Nasilasila.
Looking at other results, Scotland defeated Kenya 31‑26, Argentina beat Canada 28‑0, France beat Australia 17‑22, England defeated Samoa 19‑15, New Zealand defeated Russia 29‑5 while South Africa thrashed Ireland 45‑7.
Fiji will meet Argentina in the cup quarterfinal at 10.54 this morning.
The Cup semis start at 7.40am tomorrow and the Cup Final is at 12.53pm tomorrow.
Classic @fijirugby finesse with the no look pass setting up a brilliant team try at #RWC7s pic.twitter.com/Itfp6KRkWC
— Rugby World Cup Sevens (@WorldRugby7s) July 21, 2018
Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations
