The Fiji Airways Men’s 7s team has advanced to the quarterfinals of the Dubai 7s, where they will compete at 7:32 PM tomorrow. Their progression comes after a hard-fought 21-12 victory over New Zealand in their final pool match.
New Zealand struggled throughout the pool stage, suffering three losses. They were defeated 28-12 by the USA and 26-14 by Spain before their match against Fiji.
The clash with Fiji saw Terio Tamani capitalize on a New Zealand handling error, scooping up a spilled ball and sprinting 70 meters to score the opening try. However, New Zealand responded with an unconverted try after exploiting a defensive lapse by Fiji. At halftime, the Fijians, coached by Osea Kolinisau, held a slim 7-5 lead.
The second half brought more action as Fiji extended their lead. Pilipo Bukayaro scored a classic try off a scrum base, but New Zealand replied with their second try, narrowing the gap to 14-12 with just a minute left on the clock. Fiji sealed the win when Filipe Sauturaga pounced on another New Zealand error, turning a loose ball into a decisive try.
In contrast, the Fijiana team faced disappointment, narrowly losing their final pool game to China by a score of q15-14.