Why We Should Win the Hong Kong 7s
The Vodafone Fijian Rugby 7s side will be under a lot of pressure this weekend to win the world’s biggest 7s tournament. Fijians expect nothing less. A win will no doubt lift the Fijian spirit – many have suffered greatly after the devastation left behind by Cyclone Winston. A win will also bring smiles to the many Fijian faces whose homes are still affected by the recent floods. Despite leading the World Rugby 7s Series points table with 106 points, the South Africans are only one point behind at 105 and the Kiwis at 104. It will be a tough battle this weekend. And coach Ben Ryan, knows only too well what the Hong Kong 7s mean to Fijians – particularly the Fiji Rugby Union board. Ryan told the South China Morning Post about his discussions with the board.
“I was told that you can lose every tournament but as long as you win in Hong Kong, we’re happy.” Hong Kong is the mecca of 7s rugby. And the FRU board is well aware of what a win means to all of Fiji.
This is the tournament where we have etched our name consistently as the best. Some of the most magical moments in our rugby history have happened here.
Right from the time Ratu Ilaitia Tuisese first held the trophy aloft there way back in 1977. Ryan also has the opportunity to assess and relook at selecting his 12-member team for the Rio Olympics. The next three legs will no doubt be instrumental as well. But for now, this weekend, there has to be only one goal for Fiji. Happiness in Hong Kong. Everyone expects nothing less from our men. Talk about pressure.
Hong Kong is the mecca of 7s rugby. And the FRU board is well aware of what a win means to all of Fiji. This is the tournament where we have etched our name consistently as the best.