THE Fijiana 7s team’s chance of reaching the women’s final of the New Zealand Sevens looked bleak after losing to China 12-7 at the FMG Waikato Stadium this afternoon.
China upset the Saiasi Fuli -coached side 17-12.
Fiji beat England 26-19 but indiscipline cost them to progress into the playoffs after Roela Radiniyavuni was red carded for a professional foul.
Fiji played with six players, but managed to score two tries touched down by captain Raijieli Daveua to level the game 5-5 at halftime and Lavenia Tinai in the start of the second spell for 12-5 lead.
The Fijians defended well throughout the match but China finally cracked the defence later in the spell for two tries to win 17-12.
Fijiana meets hosts New Zealand at 10.35am tomorrow.