Fiji push through in World Rugby Sevens

Fiji performed to plan and progressed through to the Cup Competition of the HSBC World Sevens in Vancouver on Saturday. Playing in front of what felt and sounded like a home crowd at BC Place, they won all their three Pool games, collecting maximum points. But they were given a real hard match in their final outing against Kenya.

Fiji opened up the scoring with  a couple of tries by Veremalua and Mulevoro, one of these converted by Taliga. Kenya matched that with their own double dip into the right hand side of the try zone. First it was Injera, and then Ouma, charging fiercely through some tested Fijian defence.  Equal footing at 12:12 as they turned around after the seven minute first half.

Tries were matched again. Veremalua got his second try for Fiji then Ollech scored for Kenya. With the drop goal conversion by Adema, Kenya took the lead, 19-17. Kenya tried valiantly to hang on but as the siren sounded for time up, Fiji played their magical keep away rugby leading to a score by Taliga. That one was converted, final score Fiji 24:19 Kenya.

The teams go again on Sunday for the Cup, Plate, Bowl and Shield competitions of the HSBC Canada Sevens.

Photography: www.jashleynixon.com