Australia A claims title

THE visiting Australia A women’s side defeated former champions Seahawks 28-5 in a tough contest to claim the 2023 McDonald’s Fiji’s Coral Coast 7s women’s division trophy.

Head coach Reg Taylor said: “I am proud of the team. They faced some very good Fijian opposition. You can see the quality and depth of Fijian women’s 7s rugby continues to grow and the Fijian players have an exciting future ahead of them.”

He added they were thankful for the opportunity to compete in the tournament.

“The world is watching Fijian women’s rugby following the success of the Fijiana Drua in Australia’s Super W competition. Vinaka to Fiji Rugby Union, Coral Coast 7s, and the Australian government for supporting this great tournament and our participation.”

Star Australian player Bienne Terita and several of her teammates will now return to Australia ahead of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series in Sydney (January 27-29).

“Our team feels very blessed to have the opportunity to travel to Fiji and be part of the return of the Coral Coast 7s,” Terita said.

“Vinaka to our Fijian opposition, the Fijian fans and match officials, and a big vinaka vakalevu to all the locals who have taken such good care of us, including at our hotel. Fiji is such a beautiful place to visit.”

Earlier in the semi-finals, Seahawks beat Tabu Soro Angels 17-nil while Australia A thumped Navosa 26-nil.

Police won the women’s plate competition defeating Army 17-12 while Navosa won the match for third place after defeating Tabu Soro Angels 12-7.