The FIJI Water Flying Fijians defeated Japan 41-17 in a gallant match at the Hanazano Rugby Stadium in Osaka, Japan to win the 2024 Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup on Saturday night.
Fiji’s campaign gained success with two tries each by Vuate Karawalevu and Ponipate Loganimasi, a try from Albert Tuisue, and successful conversions by Caleb Muntz.
With the scores the scores tied 10-all at half-time, captain Tevita Ikanivere acknowledged the effort put in by the boys after the breather.
“Japan came out firing in the first 20 minutes and that was their strength,” said Ikanivere.
Ikanivere noted the Japanese defence opened up in the second spell, giving Fiji the momentum needed to advance their winning prospects.
The captain said his team expected Japan to come out strong in the oping minutes.
“Physically, I think that’s what wore them (Japan) out and great work from our bomb squad on the bench who came out and finished the job for us.”
He added the players had maintained trust in each other going into the final and were looking out for one another on the field.
Ikanivere said the team had trainied for suck scenarios.
“Japan was going to come out fighting, in the first 20 minutes and lucky for them, they did score.
“We talked about trusting each other and having each other’s back on the field.
“I think the boys were focused and we came back strong after that try and pulled through to get the win,” Ikanivere said.
This was Fiji’s sixth PNC title.
Unlike previous years, this year Fiji had majority local-based players who represented the national side after playing for the Fijian Drua.