The Vodafone Fiji 7s team defeated Canada 19-17 in their first pool match of the Hong Kong 7s tournament early this morning.
Savenaca Rawaca scored two tries while Semi Kunatani scored a last minute try to give Fiji the much needed win on the opening day.
The national side was tested by the desperate defence of the Canadian side as they were down 5-12 at half time.
Fiji struggled to find their rhythm and also get their offload game going as Canada continued to frustrate their attack throughout the game.
Coach Ben Ryan’s team in the first half included Masivesi Dakuwaqa, Jasa Veremalua and Isake Katonibau in the forwards and Jerry Tuwai, Vatemo Ravouvou, Osea Kolinisau and Savenaca Rawaca in the backs.
The changes in the second half saw Kitione Taliga, Amenoni Nasilasila, Pio Tuwai, Apisai Domolailai and Semi Kunatani bringing back the running rugby and offloads.
Meanwhile, Dakuwaqa was given a yellow card in the first half.
This resulted in two tries by Canada.
Meanwhile, the New Zealand 7s team came back from 17-0 down to beat France 19-17 in their opening pool game at the Hong Kong 7s while England upset South Africa 21-14.
Fiji will face Korea at 4.24pm today before they face Wales at 8.24 tonight.
The Cup quarterfinals start at 2.58pm tomorrow, the Cup semifinals start at 7.44pm tomorrow while the Cup final kicks off at 11pm tomorrow.
