Maqala scores twice in Oceania opener

Watch this space, a new and unknown player was unleashed during the PacificAus Sports Oceania 7s competition that started yesterday.

This could be a defying and life changing moment for Fijian 7s utility Sireli Maqala who scored twice in their 26-14 win over Australia in the opening match.

Maqala now finds himself contesting for an Olympic Games spot after he was spotted by coach Gareth Baber playing in a local sevens tournament.

Like any other Fijian lad, the Bureiwai native from Ra now realises the potential he has got.

Also scoring Fiji’s tries were Jiuta Wainiqolo and Waisea Nacuqu

“I was so impressed when I saw Sireli playing in the under-20 grade for Dominion Brothers,” Baber said when asked about Maqala.

“I could see an individual and some aspect he reminded me a lot of Osea Kolinisau and he even looks a little bit of him as well.

“I saw him playing in that rover’s position.

“He was physical, great skill level and it was really the way I could see him leading that group of players around him.

“That teaches you a lot about individuals like Maqala and Taniela Sadrugu.”

I’ve seen them play against each other you know Fiji versus Fiji and now I need to see them play against international teams.”

It wasn’t long when Baber brought him into the Fijian 7s environment and gave him an opportunity Maqala proved himself when he featured for the Fijian Shadow side at the Marist 7s.

While many may argue about his selection, one thing is for sure he maybe young but shows a lot of maturity in the way he goes about with his rugby.