The Fiji Airways Men’s 7s team has broken a 22-tournament drought by claiming victory at the Dubai 7s.
In the final, Fiji overcame Spain with a decisive 19-5 win. Spain initially took the lead through Pol Pla’s early try, but Fiji responded with three unanswered tries, dominating the remainder of the game. Filipe Sauturaga scored the opening try, followed by captain Jerry Matana and Ilikimi Torosi, who sealed the victory in the second half.
Sauturaga’s standout performance earned him the title of Player of the Final.
Coach Osea Kolinisau expressed his relief and joy, describing the win as “getting the monkey off their backs” after two years without a title. He acknowledged the challenges faced during the winless stretch and extended gratitude to the players’ families for their unwavering support throughout the tough times.