The Vodafone Fijiana XV fought hard until the final whistle but were unable to hold off a strong second-half performance from the Springbok Women, going down 29–22 in a closely contested Test in Lautoka this afternoon.
Fijiana made an impressive start, with winger Atelaite Buna crossing for the opening try in the third minute to give Fiji an early 5–0 lead.
South Africa struggled to capitalise on its early territorial advantage, making several basic errors during the opening stages.
The Springbok Women eventually found their way over the line in the 18th minute through their hooker to level the match at 5–5.
Fijiana continued to enjoy possession and pressure, but struggled to convert their opportunities into points.
Their persistence paid off in the 28th minute when Vani Buleki scored in the corner, restoring Fiji’s lead at 10–5.
Fijiana held on to that advantage into half-time.
However, South Africa returned from the break with renewed intensity.
Their winger used her pace out wide to score in the 44th minute, putting the Springbok Women ahead for the first time at 12–10.
South Africa then extended its advantage with another try through their winger before Fijiana responded to level the scores at 17–17.
With the match entering its final stages, both sides battled for possession as the contest remained finely balanced.
The Springbok Women regained the lead with another try to move 24–17 ahead.
Fijiana refused to surrender and hit back with nine minutes remaining, cutting the deficit to just two points at 24–22.
But South Africa held its composure under pressure and sealed the victory with a late try to secure a 29–22 win.
Despite the defeat, Fijiana showed determination and resilience throughout the contest, pushing the Springbok Women until the closing stages.
This is the second Test match the Fijiana team has lost against South Africa in Fiji.
