THE Fijiana fought hard to derail a strong Hong Kong 54 – 26 at the Kai Tak Youth Sport Ground in Hong Kong. The game was intense as both teams were coming off Round One wins.
The Fijiana relied on their fast, free-flowing and flamboyant rugby style and scored two near tries in the first ten minutes.
Fijiana fly-half Varanisese Qoro and center Salote Nailolo were lethal every time they had possession.
On the other hand, Hong Kong were eager to keep the game tight in the forwards and build their attack behind their powerful rucks and mauls.
Their number eight Grace Hood is a quality ball carrier and used her big frame to break the Fijiana defenders.
But the Fijiana finally found their attacking rhythm and scored four more tries. Atelaite Buna was in prolific form to score two tries on the right wing. The halftime score was 40 – 14.
However in the second half, the Fijiana penalty count was high as the side became overzealous in defending the rucks. This gave some room for Hong Kong to counter attack.
Replacement hooker Selai Naliva was brilliant. Her physicality and work around the park boosted the Fijiana forward pack.
Vasemaca Duva made a good impact when she came into the game. The stocky inside center resembled Joshua Tuisova with her hard carriers and solid defense.
The brave Hong Kong side scored two consolation tries but the Fijiana held out and won, 54 – 26.
