The Fiji Airways Men’s 7s side will not feature in the Cup quarterfinals of the Singapore 7s for the first time in the tournament’s history after failing to score more than seven points against Ireland in their 26-19 victory today.
After losing two pool matches yesterday to the USA and Great Britain, the Osea Kolinisau coached side needed to beat Ireland by at least 8 points to qualify as the third best overall finisher.
Terio Tamani opened the scoring for Fiji in the second minute but the Irish managed to level scores a minute later through Gavin Mullen.
Joji Nasova put Fiji up in the fifth minute but Ireland continued to match the pace and skills of the Fijians and Terry Kennedy scored from a kick and chase attempt as the teams headed to the break with a 14-14 scoreline.
Jordan Conroy put Ireland ahead after the commencement of the second half but two back to back tries to Ponipate Loganimasi and Tamani gave Fiji the lead but the win was not enough to see them book a place in the Cup quarters.
Ireland and Great Britain progress to the Cup quarters.
