The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians have been beaten 34-21 by Japan in their opening match of the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup.
This was the 18th test between the two sides and it is also Japan’s fourth victory over Fiji.
It is a disappointing start to Fiji’s Pacific Nations Cup campaign as they struggled to keep up with Japan’s fast paced attacking game plan in the match.
Japan scored four tries in the opening 25 minutes of the first half.
Fiji scored two tries in the first half through Levani Botia and Sam Matavesi. Both of Fiji’s tries was converted by Ben Volavola.
A first half yellow card to Fiji’s Filipo Nakosi also made things worse for Fiji in the first half. He got a yellow card for foul play. The referee said the tackle was right to neck.
The Brave Blossoms led Fiji 29-14 at half time.
Fiji’s third try in the match was also scored by hooker Sam Matavesi and it was converted by Volavola.
Japan was strong at the scrum and took advantage of the gaps in Fiji’s defensive system through quick rucks.
Japan also dominated possession which is something Coach Jamie Joseph set out as a priority.
Fiji next face Canada in the Pacific Nations Cup.
| PLAY BY PLAY |
Flying Fijians |
Fulltime
|
Japan |
| TIME |
|
|
| '3 | (Penalty goal) Tamura Y scores the first try | |
| '7 | Fukuoka K scores the second try of the match | |
| Levani Botia scores the 1st try! | '12 | |
| Conversion successful by Ben Volavola | '13 | |
| '19 | Matsushima K Try! | |
| '20 | Tamura Y conversion Successful | |
| '22 | Timothy Lafaele scores | |
| '23 | Tamura Y Conversion Successful | |
| '31 | Kazuki Himeno Try! | |
| '32 | Tamura Y Conversion Successful | |
| Sam Matavesi scores the 2nd try | '37 | |
| Ben Volavola conversion successful | '40 |
| HALFTIME |
| TIME | ||
| '55 | Kotaro Matsushima scores the first try of the 2nd half | |
| Sam Matavesi scores the 1st try for Fiji in the 2nd half | '61 | |
| Ben Volavola conversion successful | '62 | |
| FULLTIME |
