The Fiji Airways men’s national 7s team edged a strong Samoan side 12-7 to kick off their Hong Kong 7s campaign.
It was an extremely physical first half with Fiji struggling to break the Samoan defence.
However, Joseva Talacolo managed to power through the Samoan defence to score their first try, as they led 7-0 at half time.
Brilliant combination play resulted in Pilipo Bukayaro splitting the Samoan defence to extend Fiji’s lead to 12-0.
"That is how it's done!" 😮💨
— World Rugby 7s (@WorldRugby7s) March 31, 2023
Bukayaro sliding over the line in style for @fijirugby 🇫🇯#HSBC7s | #HK7s pic.twitter.com/vxkh8Yrxzq
Samoa hit back through Neueli Leitufia who scored under the posts after a brilliant set up by Vaa Apelu Maliko.
Samoa began to mount a strong comeback however it was not enough as Napolioni Bolaca kicked the ball into touch to seal the win for Fiji.
In earlier matches, New Zealand beat Kenya 29-5 and South Africa beat Ireland 14-7.
Fiji faces Canada at 3.52pm tomorrow and will play Argentina at 8:37pm.
The cup quarter-finals will start at 2.02pm Sunday, the semi-finals will begin at 7.29pm Sunday and the final will be held at 12.15am Monday.
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