2018 RWC 7S: Fiji survives determined Japan

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Fiji 7s Captain Jerry Tuwai gestures to the heavens after scoring a try for Fiji against Japan during their round of 16 match at the Rugby World Cup 7s at the AT&T Park in San Francisco. Fiji beat Japan 35-10 and will now proceed to the quarters where they will face Argentina tomorrow. Picture: JOVESA NAISUA

THE Fiji Airways Fiji 7s team survived a physical battle against a fire-up Japanese team to secure a deserving 35-10 win in its do-or-die Rugby World Cup Sevens opening game in San Francisco this afternoon.

Boosted by the services of four Fijian players, the Japanese confronted the Fiji 7s team head-on but they slowly gave up the challenge in the second spell as the Fijians ran riot and destroyed their world cup hopes.

Kalione Nasoko passed the concussion test after accidently ran into Kameli Soejima while Paula Dranisinikula also received a cut above his eye.

Big names such as Semi Radradra, Leone Nakarawa, Josua Tuisova and Semi Kunatani stood firm defending their ground while captain courageous ‘fooled’ the Japanese with his uncanny footwork to secure the side a spot in tomorrow’s quarter-final.

Fiji’s tries were scored Semi Kunatani, Jasa Veremalua, Josua Tuisova, Jerry Tuwai and Semi Radradra.

Vatemo Ravouvou converted two tries while Amenoni Nasilasila also added six points to his name with three conversions.

Japan’s two tries were scored by Fijians Soejima and Jose Seru.

Fiji to face Argentina in the quarter-final tomorrow.

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