Fiji 7s Triumph Again: Commanding Victory Over Star-Powered Mike Friday Selects at Coral Coast 7s

The Fiji Airways Fiji Men’s 7s team successfully retained their McDonald’s Coral Coast 7s title, triumphing over the Mike Friday Selects 29-14 in an electrifying final. A passionate crowd witnessed Fiji dominate the star-studded opposition, which included former international players like South Africa’s Rosko Specman, Ireland’s Harry McNulty, Wales’ Luke Trehan, and Fiji’s two-time Olympic gold medalist Jerry Tuwai. Members of Fiji’s extended squad also bolstered the visitors, making for a high-caliber showdown.

The defending champions wasted no time asserting their dominance, racing to a commanding 22-0 lead by halftime. Filipe Sauturaga ignited the scoring, followed by Joseva Talacolo, Pilipo Bukayaro, and Vuiviawa Naduvalo, as Fiji capitalized on their opponents’ repeated lapses in discipline. Two yellow cards for the Mike Friday Selects in the first half compounded their struggles.

The visitors showed resilience in the second half, attempting a spirited comeback. Fiji extended their lead with a fifth try through Terio Tamani before Mike Friday Selects responded with tries from Iowane Teba and Chris Odinga. However, further yellow cards stifled their momentum, allowing Fiji to hold on for the win.

The match highlighted Fiji’s attacking brilliance and ability to punish errors while showcasing the competitive spirit and skill of both teams.