Despite losing to New Zealand in the semifinals, the Vodafone Fiji 7s team backed themselves to defeat South Africa 26-12 in the third place playoff of the Sydney 7s.
South Africa played without Kwagga Smith and Philip Snyman.
Captain Osea Kolinisau scored a brace of tries while Jerry Tuwai and Savenaca Rawaca scored a try each.
Coach Ben Ryan said New Zealand last beat Fiji 21 months ago.
Ryan added he is happy to see the progress in the team and is looking forward to the next leg.
