Fiji lose S/Africa 7s semis, NZ defends title

The Digicel Fiji 7's team lost to New Zealand 26 points to 19 in the semifinal of the South Africa 7's this morning.

Fiji started well with wing, Saimoni Nuku scoring the opening try before New Zealand came back to reduce the score line to 7-5 but captain Emosi Vucago scored at the stroke of half time for the side to lead 12 points to 5.

New Zealand started strongly in the second half, scoring under the post to draw level with Fiji before they increased their lead to 19 points to 12.

Jerry Burotu showed his power when he crossed for Fiji's third try, as the two sides were locked at 19 all with just 10 seconds left before the final whistle.

A mistake from Nasoni Roko where he decided to kick the ball into New Zealand's hands was the turning point in the game as the Kiwis used that possession to win 26-19.

Coach Iliesa Tanivula said the loss was hard to swallow for his boys as they lost to New Zealand just at the stroke of full time.