Despite losing to New Zealand in the semifinals, the Vodafone Fiji 7s team backed themselves to defeat South Africa 26-12 in the third place playoff of the Sydney 7s.
South Africa played without Kwagga Smith and Philip Snyman.
Captain Osea Kolinisau scored a brace of tries while Jerry Tuwai and Savenaca Rawaca scored a try each.
Coach Ben Ryan said New Zealand last beat Fiji 21 months ago.
Ryan added he is happy to see the progress in the team and is looking forward to the next leg.
Meanwhile, the New Zealand 7s team won back to back titles after being crowned as the champion of the Inaugural Sydney 7s.
New Zealand defeated Australia 27-24 in the Cup final with a last minute try from Rieko Iowane.
It was Australia all the way throughout the 19 minutes of the final but New Zealand played to the last minute to break the hearts of the Australian fans at their home ground.
The Iowane brothers again showed why they are the upcoming stars of the World Sevens Series as Rieko scored three tries in the final.
New Zealand’s other try came from Kurt Baker.
Meanwhile, looking at the World Sevens Series points table, Fiji, South Africa and New Zealand all have 69 points but Fiji is on top with Most Points Scored of 707 and Most Tries Scored of 109.
South Africa also have 69 but is second with 609 points scored and 95 tries, New Zealand who also have 69 is third with 522 points and 86 tries.
Australia is fourth with 54 while Argentina is fifth with 54.
Looking at the Las Vegas 7s, the Vodafone Fiji 7s team being drawn again with Samoa, France and Argentina.
New Zealand is pooled with Kenya, Portugal and Russia while Australia heads Pool B alongside England, Scotland and Japan.
South Africa is pooled with USA, Wales and Canada.
The Las Vegas 7s will be held on the 5th to the 7th of next month.
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