It is sweet victory after two years and winning at the Mecca of Sevens in Hong Kong after 10 years last night, makes it extra special.
Fiji had not won a tournament since Adelaide 2007 and we have gone through a lot over the past few weeks since coach Iliesa Tanivula was appointed 8 weeks ago.
Some wanted heads to roll, many even booing and swearing at the young Fiji team at the TFL National Stadium during the Marist Sevens after their favorites were not included in the team.
Many even hoping that Fiji would lose so that changes can occur.
But for the Digicel Fiji Sevens team and coach, the most important component was patience and confidence.
Tanivula's message last night to the players in the changing room before they ran onto the field to take on South Africa in the final - "A short term pain for a long term gain".
Manager Jope Tuivanuavou said Tanivula told the boys that they have gone through a lot of criticism from rugby fans and many had ruled them out to win in Happy Valley, and it was time to prove themselves.
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Tuivanuavou also has a message for the critics in Fiji.
He said after working with Tanivula for the preparation of the team, he saw that Tanivula is one of the best coaches in sevens rugby.
He said game plans, crucial changes and confidence built up by the coach worked for the players yesterday.
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Tanivula took over as coach on the 3rd of last month and delivered the first win for Fiji last night.
Also last night in the Hong Kong Sevens awards night, co-captain Emosi Vucago was named the best and fairest player of the tournament.
The side will leave Hong Kong at midnight for the Australia Sevens in Adelaide.
Feature
Sweet Victory
