What a beauty! What a result! 42-16! Now that was powerful! The fans lapped up that display of constructive rugby, embraced the moment, and lived the magic that comes with a winning start. And what a perfect start that was for the Flying Fijians on a cool and at times windy evening in the Capital City yesterday. The Laucala Bowl turned up the volume and provided the lung power for feats of magic on the pitch.
The carnival-like atmosphere was a perfect backdrop for an evening of 15s rugby! Manu Samoa came off with a strong first half effort to hold a slight 16-15 lead at the break. The stage had been set though in the early part of the week. The previews marked this down as a clash to watch out for.
Samoa versus Fiji rugby tests have long been associated with big hits, aggression and physicality! They are the hallmarks of Pacific rugby anyway. They define these battles and they have been a key part of our clashes for the past 100 years. It is difficult to shrug aside the history that is ingrained in these Tests which started in 1924.
And they are not for the faint hearted either! They mix the basic ingredients of rugby with flair and physicality. Last night’s clash had all the vital mix that placed the clash on a very high plane. The hype had built up to dizzying heights.
National coach Mick Byrne knew this wasn’t going to be a walk in the park. Skipper and hooker Tevita Ikanivere was ready for a torrid affair. In the end, a better defensive shape, a strong backline, and e.