Sloppy defence allows Russia to score twice
Sloppy defence seemed to be only setback for the Fiji Airways Fijian 7s team after they walloped minnows Russia 36-14 in their second pool game in Hong Kong yesterday. Head coach Gareth Baber at halftime reiterated to the players on the need to lift their defence. He also reminded them to play a smart game.
The Fijians romped to a 24-7 lead at halftime with veteran Isake Katonibau and Semi Kunatani running in two tries apiece with Nasilasila landing two conversions.
The tries were set-up by Vatemo Ravouvou and Samisoni Viriviri who had zeroed into the Russian defence to create the overlap.
The only blemish in the first half was when forward Mesulame Kunavula copped a yellow card on an aerial infringement.
The Fijians ran riot in the second half with Kunatani running in his hat-trick followed by Josua Vakurinabili special.
Baber opted to start with Kunatani, Kunavula and Katonibau in the forwards. Captain Seremaia Tuwai was rested in the first half while Nasilasila started along with Vatemo Ravouvou, rover Viriviri and speedster Alasio Naduva.
Tuwai came in the second half along with Eroni Sau while the forwards had Kalione Nasoko coming in.
In an explosive battle the young New Zealand side edged out an experience Samoan side 19-12.
Series leader South Africa have qualified for the Cup quarterfinals when they beat Scotland 31-17 while Australia have bundled out with a 3414 loss to Canada.
Canada Sevens losing Cup finallist Kenya are on track with a 26-0 thrashing of Spain.
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Meanwhile, Steven Brown and Steve Tewa have been appointed in the Rugby World Cup Board by the International Federation’s executive committee.