Canada upset Fiji in Cape Town

A disappointing start to the day was quickly put to rest as Canada upset Fiji 22-14 in their second pool match on Day One at the Cape Town Sevens. Canada outscored the heavy favorites by four tries to two, a result made even more impressive after the North Americans had dropped the tournament opener to Samoa by 19-17.

An ominous beginning saw Fijian captain Jerry Tuwai dance through some soft Canadian defense to score just a minute into the match. As the conversion from Amenoni Nasilasila went over Canada gathered their thoughts and responded with tries from John Moonlight and then skipper Harry Jones to take a 12-7 lead into the break, Nathan Hirayama converting Moonlight’s score.

The second half saw Canada winning the contact area and dominating possession. They were rewarded for their hard work with two tries to flying winger Justin Douglas. A late score from Nasilasila opened a hint of an opportunity for Fiji but they failed to show urgency in restarting the game and time expired before they could mount any further offense.

Their third match of the day saw Canada make short work of Wales, winning 31-14 to book their spot in the Cup Quarter Finals for the first time on the 2017-18 HSBC Sevens Series.

 

SCORING

FIJI 14
Tries – J. Tuwai (1’), A. Nasilasila (13’)
Cons – A. Nasilasila 2/2 (1’, 13’)

CANADA 22
Tries – J. Moonlight (4’), H. Jones (6’), J. Douglas 2 (8’, 10’)
Cons – N. Hirayama 1/4 (4’)

 

TEAMS

FIJI
Mesulame Kunavula, Apisai Domolailai, Jasa Veremalua, Jerry Tuwai (capt.), Amenoni Nasilasila, John Stewart, Eroni Sau

Replacements: Kalione Nasoko, Apenisa Cakaubalavu, Vatemo Ravouvou, Josua Vakurunabili, Paula Dranisinukula

CANADA
Phil Berna, Harry Jones (capt.), John Moonlight, Pat Kay, Nathan Hirayama, Connor Braid, Justin Douglas

Replacements: Matt Mullins, Admir Cejvanovic, Isaac Kaay, Mike Fuailefau, Lucas Hammond