The Fiji 7s team secured a dramatic 19-12 victory over Devo Babas after the full-time buzzer, advancing to the semi-finals of the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s. The decisive moment came when replacement half-back Pilipo Bukayaro capitalized on a five-meter scrum, breaking through to score the winning try and prevent a potential upset for the national side.
Earlier in the match, Fiji 7s took the lead with tries from Joji Nasova and Jerry Matana, building a 12-0 advantage. However, Devo Babas fought back with Senirusi Rauqe scoring twice to level the game. Bukayaro’s late heroics sealed the win for Fiji.
In other quarter-finals, Manu Samoa defeated the All Blacks 7s team 21-12, Fijian Drua overcame Lavidi Brothers in a closely contested 8-5 game, and Mike Friday 7s Select edged out Brothers with a 17-14 victory.
The semi-finals are set for tomorrow. Manu Samoa will face Mike Friday 7s Select at 12:30 PM, while Fiji 7s will take on Fijian Drua at 12:50 PM.