women
international women
Fiji raised first WXV Global Series The Challenger trophy after a fierce clash with the Netherlands.
In the dying seconds of the decider, Fijiana won a penalty that secured a 20-17 victory over the Oranje Dames.
Fiji came on strong and raced to an impressive 12-0 lead at the Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground in the first 13 minutes, with man of the match Merewairita Neivos landing the first try and Ivamere fullback Nabura Rokwati adding the second six minutes later.
It wasn’t until half-time that the Dutch found a way and Elisabeth Boot struck from a spot-kick for her side’s first score.
Captain Linde van der Velden and center Pleuni Kijevit both ran in to take control of the game, but in the end ill-discipline cost The Netherlands a hard-fought lead and Fiji secured silverware in Hong Kong.
“It feels so special,” Fiji winger Repeka Tova said after the hard-fought win.
“We worked for this tournament and we wanted to take a step forward.
“We did our best to make all the plays we did. We all did our best and got the job done.”
The last day WXV Global Series Challenger faced delays due to extreme weather conditions, with Spain meeting with Brazil must be cancelled.
The 27-year-old explained: “The weather in Hong Kong is hot, so we had to adapt to that.
“The fact that we’ve supported each other is special. We’re here for a reason.
“It’s not over here (after winning the WXV Global Series Challenger).
“We’ll come back and review. We’re looking forward to next year.
“I’m so proud of the girls,” she concluded with a big smile on her face and the winner’s medal around her neck.