The Telecom Fiji Warriors had to fight hard to defeat Tonga A 38-30 in their first match of the Pacific Rugby Challenge at the ANZ stadium last night.
Wing Lepani Raiyala scored the winning try in the 76th minute.
Fiji took an early lead in the match when captain, Mosese Voka scored two tries within the space of five minutes.
Tonga A’s first five, James Faiva converted three penalties in the first half after some sloppy play and lack of discipline at the break down from the Warriors.
Other tries for the Fiji Warriors came from Eroni Vasiteri and Lepani Raiyala with full back, Apisalome Waqatabu successfully converting six points to give them a 26-9 lead over Tonga at half time.
The Fiji Warriors were the first to score in the second half through John Stewart.
Tonga A made a late comeback in the last 15 minutes of the match but the Warriors held on to win their opening match of the tournament.
Meanwhile, Junior Japan also beat Samoa A 34-31 yesterday.
The Fiji Warriors will now play Junior Japan at 3pm next Tuesday.
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