Feature
Fiji 7’s team goes down to Samoa
The Digicel Fiji 7's team now faces a daunting task in trying to defend its San Diego 7's title after losing 21-17 to Samoa in their final pool play earlier this afternoon.
They will now face favorites New Zealand in the first quarter finals at 7:28 tomorrow morning.
The Etonia Naba led side dominated the first half of the match against Samoa with three quick tries to Neumi Nanuku, Tomasi Mawi and Setefano Cakau to lead 17 nil at half-time and looked set to avenging their loss in Wellington.
However, Fiji was once again let down in the kicking department where Neumi Nanuku failed to convert two of the three tries.
The second half belonged to Samoa as they crossed the line on three occasions and all of the tries were converted by Lolo Lui.
Fiji was on attack on the last phase of play with rover Cakau breaking through but Isei Lewaqai knocked on the final pass for Samoa to record their second win against Fiji in a space of a week.
Speaking to Village Sports, Manager Opetaia Ravai said the main area of concerned for the side was on kick-off in the second half where they failed to win any possession.
Ravai added that this has to be fixed before they take on New Zealand in the quarter finals.
Also there is a injury concern in the team with Emosi Vucago still limping but young Tomasi Mawi played his heart out in the starting line-up.
The first quarter final tomorrow at 7.28am New Zealand will take on Fiji, followed by England facing Kenya at 7.50am, then at 8.12am Argentina against South Africa while the last quarter final at 8.34am Samoa will play Scotland.
