The Fijiana Sevens team triumphed 31-5 over Samoa in the final of the Pacific 7s in Port Moresby on Saturday in a stunning return to the abbreviated code as they prepare their assault on the 2009 Women’s Rugby World Cup Sevens.
In the morning, the Fijiana defeated Manusina 26-7 with tries from Rusila Nagasau (2), Titilia Ravono and Elenoa Kunatuba while Elina Taoka picked up three conversions.
In the final tries from Atasa Seru (2) and Nagasau gave Fijiana a 17-0 lead at the break and further scores from Ravono and Salote Tikoisuva completed the job. Taoba kicked three more conversions.
“We’ve had a whirlwind week after deciding very late to enter the Pacific 7s,” Fijiana manager Vela Naucukidi said. “But the girls are ecstatic over the win, especially being able to defeat Samoa twice in one day.
“We’ve also been very well looked after here by the organisers and the Fiji High Commission – the support for the team has been excellent.”
On day one, Fijiana beat Niue 40-0 and Papua New Guinea 46-0.
The team returns to Fiji on Monday and will work with the Fiji Rugby Union to map out their plans for the next 18 months as they aim for the 2009 World Cup in Dubai.
Fijiana 7s in PNG: Vela Naucukidi (manager), Elenoa Kunatuba (player-coach), Salote Tikoisuva (capt), Atasa Seru, Laisani Bai, Elina Taoba, Titilia Ravono, Rusila Nagasau, Sereima Damuni, Mereoni Uluiviti, Motu Lalagavesi and Naimasi Naiyalatabua
