“My Dad’s last wish was to remember God and utilize the talents he has blessed me with.”

That’s the sentiment of Hong Kong 7s player of the tournament Nikola Matawalu in an exclusive interview with Fijivillage this afternoon.

Matawalu lost his father last year but he still remembers his last words when the national anthem was sung before the final.

The 23-year-old Ra man was instrumental in Fiji’s memorable win over rivals New Zealand last Sunday as he scored a try and helped set up another which was scored by captain Setefano Cakau.

The nippy halfback is the second youngest in a family of seven.

A naval officer by profession, Matawalu said he just could not wait to play in the final when he saw his fellow teammates Joeli Lutumailagi and Lepani Botia in tears.

Matawalu added that they were united as a team but he thought about his father as well.