THE Fijiana braved their second pool game against Scotland this morning.
The Fijiana showcased Fijian flair against a strong Scottish side.
This was an important match for Scotland who were impressive against Wales in round 1 and wanted to stamp their mark in the tournament in the hopes of a quarter finals berth.
Fly half Helen Nelson dictated play well and was decisive with her calls. Left winger Francesca Mcghie continued her try scoring streak. She is a player to watch as the tournament proceeds.
Fiji winger Michella’e Stolz was subbed off very early in the game and there are no updates on her injury.
Fiji started the game on the back foot but their defence was good. They showed effort and fight – a huge change from round one.
Vika Matarugu was issued a yellow card for a head high tackle. This made it more difficult for the Fijiana.
Bitila Tawake was solid in her carries and led with courage.
Jade Coates was a master in the lineouts, and her calls kept the Scotland forwards guessing.
Nunia Daunimoala was a towering figure in the lineouts. She was able to steal a few of Scotland’s lineout throws which rattled the Scottish women. Daunimoala was Fiji’s best player for this match.
Josifini Neihamu ran hard all game. But Scotland had done their homework on Neihamu in order to contain her.
Fiji’s finest moment came in the 25th minute. A good linebreak by Daunimoala, a couple more passes, until the ball reached loosehead prop Loraini Senivutu, who fended off Scotland’s last defender and dived over in the right corner.
Fiji came out firing in the second half and the crowd was behind them.
Replacement fullback Salote Nailolo was the super-sub Fiji was looking for. Her injection into the game made a huge change in Fiji’s attack. She was evasive, silky, skillful and strong. Scotland found it hard to defend Nailolo.
Bitila Tawake was sent off for a yellow card in the 56th minute. This was a turning point in the game because it was later upgraded to a red card which meant Fiji would play the rest of the game with only 14 players.
Fiji made significant surges and strive for the Scottish try line right to the final whistle. They scored two impressive tries in the second half.
The match ended 29 – 15 and the Fijiana showed the world they have the capability to challenge big teams.
Their biggest hurdle is discipline.
Fiji will play Wales, next weekend.