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August 23, 2024 – Defending champions Fiji kicked off the 2024 Pacific Nations Cup with a thumping 42-16 win over Manu Samoa at the National Stadium in Suva yesterday.
Samoa led 16-15 at halftime but Fiji still led by 27 points despite Fijian lock Temo Mayanavanua being sent off for a high tackle in the 36th minute.
Samoa never took the lead after Muntz’s second penalty, and appeared to be without a goal in the final half-hour of the match after winger Pisi Leilua fired home a shot that winger Senio Toleafoa saved as it crossed the goal line.
The match took a dramatic turn in the 54th minute. Fijian blindside player Meli Derenalagi made a stunning 40-meter sprint. Frank Lomani followed, but a jersey tug from Samoan winger Pisi Leilua denied the dynamic center back a chance to connect and score. Leilua was sent off. On the ensuing throw-in, blindside player Kitione Salawa made a powerful run through.
Fiji found its groove, leading 25-16. No.25 Epeli Momo dribbled the ball behind the blue wall, and winger Selesitino Ravutaumada kicked the ball into the infield. Eager to attack, Lomani also managed to chase the ball.
Fiji were on a roll when Samoan right winger Tuna Tuitama was sent off for a bad tackle.
Samoa got off to a bad start early on, failing to secure the opening kick and being awarded a penalty, allowing Fiji to take the ball. Salava scored on a powerful drive from Elia Kanakaiwata.
As Fiji attacked hard, Samoa winger Murphy Taramai managed to score, turning the tide.
Samoa held 63 percent of the possession in the first quarter, forcing Fiji to make 89 steals to Fiji’s 42, and Samoa led 13-5.
Samoa had a spectacular try in the 17th minute. Halfback Melani Matavao rushed to the middle of the scrum, shook off a hooker and a pillar, then raised her right arm and passed the ball to Pisi Leilua.
D’Angelo Leuila hit the target with all four of his shots. Second line number five Alapati Leiua and forward Aka Seiuli ran at full speed.
Lomani was named man of the match. Sarawa played 27 games for Fiji Dulla and was impressive. Muts was tackled 17 times but is getting better. Sam Slade topped the Samoan tackle charts with 12, while Tala Mai was tireless as always.
Fiji: 42 (Kitione Salawa 3, Iosefo Baleiwairiki, Frank Lomani, Vuate Karawalevu; Caleb Muntz 3 points, 2 points) Samoa: 16 (Pisi Leilua attempts; D’Angelo Leuila 3 points) HT: 15-16
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