The most decorated 7s player in the world who has won two Olympic gold medals, several HSBC 7s tournaments and now the Rugby World Cup 7s, Jerry Tuwai has thanked the people of Fiji for their support, prayers and love.
Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s player Pilipo Bukayaro says every time he participates in the World 7s Series, his parents' faces are always on his mind as they have been pillars of strength in his rugby 7s career.
He says he always writes their names on his arm to keep them close to him when he is playing.
The 22-year-old says he dedicates his World Cup 7s win to his parents, especially his father, who pushes him during training, even though he did not want to train sometimes.
He adds Fiji’s Olympic gold medal win in Tokyo inspired him to join 7s.
He says when he joined the squad last year, he was determined to be in the travelling squad, even though there were a lot of half-backs in the extended 7s squad.
In 2005, when Fiji won its second Melrose Cup, Bukayaro was in Class 1 and 2018, he was at Ratu Kadavulevu School.
Bukayaro says he has more to give Fiji in rugby 7s and hopes he can make the squad for the next Rugby World Cup 7s.
Fiji Airways Men’s 7s player Elia Canakaivata says if he had a wish, he would wish for his father and brother to be alive and sitting in the grandstand when he went up to receive his award from President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere today.
Canakaivata’s father and elder brother passed away in December 2020 in a road accident at Matacula Village in Tailevu.
He says sitting on the podium, he missed them both.
The 26-year-old says he would like to play for Fiji for another year and if he gets a contract, he will take the challenge.
Meanwhile, all members of the Fiji Airways National Men’s 7s team and management that won the Rugby World Cup 7s, have received $10,000 each.
The most decorated 7s player in the world who has won two Olympic gold medals, several HSBC 7s tournaments and now the Rugby World Cup 7s, Jerry Tuwai has thanked the people of Fiji for their support, prayers and love.
While speaking at the official celebrations at the HFC Bank Stadium, Tuwai apologised for the team’s performance through the series, as they did not win a few cups along the way and he also asked for forgiveness.
He also promised that they will do their best in the upcoming season and thanked everyone for believing in them.
Tuwai thanked God for the opportunity, the strength and the glory that he has bestowed on Fiji.
Coach Ben Gollings says his work is made much easier by the incredible athletes that he gets to coach on a daily basis.
He says the preparation, hard work, commitment, discipline and sacrifices that they make on a daily basis to produce results like this is incredible.
Fans have come out in numbers with Fiji flags to welcome home the Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s team after they won the Rugby World Cup 7s earlier this week.
Thousands of fans lined up the streets of Suva from the Suva Flea Market to catch a glimpse of the 7s players and management who are travelling on a truck.
Speaking from the truck, Fiji coach, Ben Gollings says he has never experienced an event like this and it is quite special to witness the support of the Fijian fans.
All members of the Fiji Airways National Men’s 7s team and management that won the Rugby World Cup 7s, have received $10,000 each.
While speaking after the traditional ceremony at the HFC Bank Stadium, President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere said they receive this cash prize from the nation for their great achievement.
He says today we celebrate not one but two victories as it was only a year ago that the Fiji 7s team came home great with the gold medal from the Tokyo Olympics and since that unforgettable win, the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have lifted and recovery is underway.
Katonivere says for almost two decades the country has waited for the Melrose Cup to come home and the wait is over as they celebrate the victory these champions delivered for Fiji.
He says the team's determination, perseverance and sacrifice have written all of them into World Rugby history.
Katonivere acknowledged Jerry Tuwai for his impressive career.
He says with only one jewel missing in Tuwai’s crown of achievements which was the Melrose Cup he has achieved this side by side with his teammates.
He thanked Tuwai for his tenacity and humility and adds he is a role model to his fellow players and to the thousands of children across the islands who love the rugby game.
President Katonivere also commends Coach Ben Gollings and captain Waisea Nucuqu as well as the team officials for their commitment and faith in the team which led to this momentous moment.
He says the team has made a powerful statement to the world that Fiji is back and is better than ever and Fijians at home are sending the same message every day through the pace of our economic recovery.
He adds Fiji is a far safer country for having travelled through the pandemic together and as they continue the recovery, the win has lifted spirits and strengthened the country’s resolve to achieve a record-breaking year of economic growth.
Katonivere also congratulated the Fiji 7s Fijiana teams for their bronze medal victory at the Olympics and their fifth-place finish in the World Cup.
He says their stellar play has made the team's story exciting to follow in the world of sports and their best is yet to come.
The most decorated 7s player in the world after winning two Olympic gold medals and now the Rugby World Cup 7s, Jerry Tuwai says the feeling is just unreal to see fans appreciating the Melrose Cup 7s win.
Tuwai says they know fans were hungry for the World Cup 7s win as we had not won the Melrose Cup for 17 years.
Meanwhile Fiji Rugby Union’s Manager Operations, Sale Sorovaki says this is a memorable achievement by the team, and it is great to see people come out in numbers to congratulate the players.
Former hard-hitting 7s and 2005 Melrose Cup winner who is now the Assistant Coach of the Fiji Airways National Men’s 7s team, Viliame Satala says all the memories are coming back from 2005 as thousands of fans lined up the streets to welcome home the team with the Melrose Cup after 17 years.
Satala says he is proud of the current players for their dedication and discipline.
Savenaca Tamaibeka came all the way from Vunidawamoli, Wailevu West in Savusavu just to be part of the Rugby World Cup 7s celebrations and to watch the Fijiana 15s side play the NZ Wahine at the HFC Bank Stadium today.
Speaking to Legend FM News at the Suva Flea Market, Tamaibeka says he had not slept as he travelled from Vanua Levu yesterday and arrived this morning.
He says he wants to thank the players for bringing home the Melrose Cup after 17 years and bringing a lot of joy for all Fijians.
Come out in numbers in your Fiji colours and Fiji flags today to congratulate the victorious Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s team after they won the Rugby World Cup 7s in Cape Town earlier this week.
The Fijian 7s Coaches, Management, and players will be greeted and traditionally welcomed with the Melrose Cup by President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere this hour. You can also go to the stadium to be part of the celebrations.
After the celebrations at the stadium, the curtain raiser match between the Army and the Police Women's teams kicks off at 3.30pm before the Rooster Chicken Fijiana 15s team takes on the NZ Wahine at 6pm.
Admission is free for the games.
Come out in numbers in your Fiji colours and Fiji flags today to congratulate the victorious Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s team after they won the Rugby World Cup 7s in Cape Town earlier this week. The celebration of the World Cup 7s victory will take place in Suva from 11am today.
Fiji Rugby Union CEO, John O’Connor confirms that part of this celebration will be a march from the Suva Flea Market to HFC Bank Stadium where the Fijian 7s Coaches, Management, and players will be greeted and traditionally welcomed with the Melrose Cup by President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
You can also go to the stadium to be part of the celebrations.
O’Connor calls out to people in the offices and residential areas to come out and show their appreciation to the team as they march from the Flea Market to HFC Bank Stadium.
After the celebrations, the curtain raiser match between the Army and the Police Women's teams kicks off at 3.30pm before the Rooster Chicken Fijiana 15s team takes on the NZ Wahine at 6pm.
Admission will be free for the games and the fans are requested to come early and get seated if they are to witness the celebrations and the matches.
The HFC Bank Stadium gates are now open to the public.
The celebration of the World Cup 7s victory by the Fiji Airways Men's National 7s team will take place in Suva today.
Fiji Rugby Union Chairman, Commodore Humphrey Tawake says after arriving in the country on Wednesday, the players are currently spending time with their families and will gather again this morning in preparation for the march.
He has thanked the Fijian Government for their consideration and confirmed that part of this celebration will be a march from the Flea Market from 11am to HFC Bank Stadium where the Fijian 7s Coaches, Management, and players will be greeted and traditionally welcomed with the Melrose Cup by President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
He says the supporters who will come down to the Stadium will also be able to watch the Rooster Chicken Fijiana play against the New Zealand Wahine Maori in a warm-up test match and the curtain raiser between the Army and the Police Women's teams which kicks off at 3.30pm straight after the celebration at HFC Bank Stadium.
Commodore Tawake says admission will be free for the games and the fans are requested to come early and get seated if they are to witness both events today.
The HFC Bank Stadium will open its gates to the public at 9.30am.
Fiji Airways National Men’s 7s Captain, Waisea Nacuqu says he is overjoyed to land in Fiji with the Melrose Cup as it was a heartbreaking experience back in 2018 when they could not win the World Cup 7s in San Francisco.
Nacuqu says it is a privilege and honour to come back with the Cup after 17 years.
Back in 2005, the team led by coach, Wayne Pivac and captain, Waisale Serevi delivered a memorable win beating England in sudden death during the semi final which also featured our current coach, Ben Gollings playing for England. We went on to beat New Zealand in the final.
17 years later, Gollings and the most decorated 7s player in the world, Jerry Tuwai and captain, Waisea Nacuqu are leading the team back from victory in the 7s World Cup in Cape Town.
The Fijiana 7s team who have had their best finish at 5th place in the World Cup were also on the same flight.
Nacuqu says he knows big celebrations are big planned by his family.
We are currently awaiting the announcement on the national 7s celebration.
The victorious Fiji Airways National Men’s 7s team has arrived home with the 7s World Cup.
The Melrose Cup has come home after a lapse of 17 years.
Back in 2005, the team led by coach, Wayne Pivac and captain, Waisale Serevi delivered a memorable win beating England in sudden death during the semi final which also featured our current coach, Ben Gollings playing for England. We went on to beat New Zealand in the final.
[Photo Credit: Getty Image]
17 years later, Gollings and the most decorated 7s player in the world, Jerry Tuwai and captain, Waisea Nacuqu are leading the team back from victory in the 7s World Cup in Cape Town.
The players living in the west will stay back in Nadi while those players living around the Suva/Nausori area will arrive at Nausori Airport at about 7pm.
The Fijiana 7s team who have had their best finish at 5th place in the World Cup are also coming back on the same flight.
Stay with us for coverage of the team’s arrival.
7s World Cup winner Kaminieli Rasaku has joined his new teammates at French Club Bayonne.
Rasaku had an impressive outing at the World Cup and was named TUDOR Men's Breakthrough Player of the Tournament.
Rasaku says he is proud to be at Bayonne.
Years of sacrifice and hard work was paid off when Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s forward Jeremaia Matana lifted the Melrose Cup in Cape Town on Monday morning.
Jeremaia’s proud father, Benidito says it was an emotional moment for him knowing that his son had sacrificed two years of rugby to help him at their farm and provide for their family.
Benidito says that he kept reminding his son to pursue his rugby dream after two years of farming.
Benidito adds that his son then asked him if he could look for a club to play again. Jeremaia later joined the Lavena 7s team and was re-called to join the Raiwasa Taveuni team before getting selected for Fiji.
He adds that the village are now planning for a grand celebration for Jeremaia.
Jeremaia attended Bouma District School and Wairiki Junior Secondary School in Taveuni.
It was a bittersweet moment for Salome Ranadi the mother of Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s robust forward, Elia Canakaivata when she watched her son scoring a try in the Rugby World Cup 7s final yesterday.
Ranadi lost her husband and son last December in a fatal road accident and believes that Canakaivata had mixed emotions after putting in an outstanding performance.
The mother of five says Canakaivata has always wanted to play for Fiji, even to the point where he sacrificed his studies just to play some games for the Tailevu North College rugby team.
Ranadi and her family watched their son yesterday morning at their village in Navunisole, Tailevu and say they are making plans for a big celebration for their hero.
In an earlier interview, Canakaivata had hoped that his late father and brother witnessed his achievement to wear the white jersey and make his debut in the World Sevens Series.
Canakaivata is from Navunisole, Namalata, Tailevu and has maternal links to Sawa Village in Verata.
The 26-year-old attended Korovou Primary School and Tailevu North College before completing his secondary education at Saint Vincent College.
He played for Northland and Suva in the local competition and the Saunaka and Army 7s teams.
He joined the Fiji Navy in 2020. Meanwhile, the national sevens side is expected to arrive at the Nadi International Airport tomorrow.
It was a day filled with celebration for the villagers of Waitabu in Taveuni yesterday as they witnessed three of their sons win the Rugby 7s World Cup.
The three players are Iosefo Masi, Jerry Matana and Filipe Sauturaga.
Masi’s father, Atonio Kawakawa, says the sound of the grog being pounded has been heard since yesterday morning, and it continued till the afternoon.
He says the house was fully packed, with children banging on drums whenever Fiji scored a try or when there was a bone-crunching tackle made by a Fijian player.
Kawakawa says it has been his son’s dream to be part of the national side to the World Cup, even though his journey took him to Australia for rugby league.
He adds growing up, Masi never missed any of Fiji’s games and sometimes he had to ask to miss school just to watch Fiji play in the 7s series.
Kawakawa says they have planned for something special when the three players arrive at their village with the Melrose Cup.
The Fiji 7s teams are expected to arrive in the country tomorrow evening.
Poasa Vunisa and Seruwaia Vualiku, the proud parents of Fiji Airways Men’s national 7s playmaker and the greatest 7s player in the world Jerry Tuwai says that Tuwai is not only their son but Fiji’s son.
Today’s World Cup win marks an incredible achievement not only for Fiji but for Tuwai personally who becomes the most decorated sevens player in the world.
While paying tribute to this achievement, Tuwai’s mother Seruwaia Vualiku says despite all of Tuwai’s achievements, he never changed.
Vualiku also shared her message to Tuwai when she bought him his first rugby boots with the message “Knife and Fork” written on it.
Meanwhile Tuwai’s father Poasa Vunisa says he has so much respect for Jerry who has also taught them so many life lessons.
Vunisa adds that he had already told his family before the final that the Melrose Cup will come to their home soon.
Tuwai is from Buca, Cakaudrove, and has maternal links to Nailaga, Ba.
“He is my youngest son and his humility has taken him this far.”
Those were the words of an emotional Makelesi Dugu, the mother of Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s captain Waisea Nacuqu after watching her son lead the national side to win Fiji’s third World Cup after 17 years.
Speaking from Votua village in Ba this morning, Dugu says it was a special moment for them as they cheered and danced in village after the final whistle.
The mother of three remembers the struggles and humble upbringing that Nacuqu went through and believes this was the motivating factor for her youngest son.
Dugu says her husband did the best he could to provide for her and her kids including Nacuqu and the other two older siblings.
She adds that Nacuqu and his brother always accompanied their father to fishing, sugar-cane harvesting and farming.
She believes these memories play a special part in her children’s lives especially when they look for something to motivate them.
Nacuqu hails from Malakati Village, Yasawa and was raised in Votua Village, Ba where he also played soccer, represented Tavua in the Battle of the Giants as a striker and played with his cousins, Pio Tuwai, Josua Tuisova and Filipo Nakosi in the Ba FSC 7s team.
He went to Votua Catholic School and Khalsa Primary School before finishing his secondary education at Ratu Navula College. The Fiji 7s and Fijiana 7s teams will be arriving on Wednesday evening at Nadi Airport.
Fiji Men’s 7s player and the Greatest Player of the 7s World Cup Final, Filipe Sauturaga, has dedicated Fiji’s win in the Rugby 7s World Cup this morning to everyone in Fiji.
Fiji defeated New Zealand 29-12 in the final.
Sauturaga says they are thankful for all the prayers and the support that enabled them to achieve a milestone.
He says it's been 17 years since they have lifted the prestigious trophy again and its a miraculous win for them.
Victorious Fiji Men’s 7s coach Ben Gollings has praised the defensive effort of the team at the World Cup.
Fiji outclassed New Zealand 29-12 to win our third Melrose Cup title.
While speaking after the final, Gollings says the team set a goal and they have finished the job.
Gollings says this win is huge for Fiji.
Dual Olympic Gold Medallist and now World Cup winner Jerry Tuwai says he is proud of the players after winning the 7s World Cup.
While speaking after the final, the greatest 7s player in the world says they have so much respect for New Zealand despite having a 19 point lead at half time.
Tuwai also thanked the fans for their continuous support.
Tuwai is now the only 7s player in the world who has two Olympic Gold medals, a 7s World Cup title and multiple 7s series titles.
Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama has congratulated our sevens heroes on another incredible win and said vinaka for the best possible start to the week –– your record as champions is an inspiration to every Fijian.
Bainimarama also tweeted that he caught the Melrose Cup final while on the water en route to Vanua Levu.
Legend FM News understands that celebration plans are already underway to welcome home the victorious men’s 7s side.
The team arrives in Nadi on Wednesday night.
Stay with us for developments.
The Fijiana 7s team has finished in 5th place in the 7s World Cup after beating Canada 53-0 in the 5th place final.
The Fijiana scored 9 tries as they eased their way to victory.
Reapi Uluinasau scored a hat-trick, Sesenieli Donu scored twice while Alowesi Nakoci, Ana Maria Naimasi, Lavenia Cavuru and Adi Vani Buleki got a try each.
| Fijiana | vs | Canada |
|---|---|---|
| 1' Reapi Uluinasau score Fiji first try!! Missed conversion. | 5 - 0 | |
| 2' Alowesi Nakoci score second try !! Missed conversion. | 10 - 0 | |
| 4' Ana Maria Naimasi score third for Fiji!! Missed conversion. | 15 - 0 | |
| 5' Sesenieli Donu scored fourth for Fiji!!! Missed conversion. | 20 - 0 | |
| 6' Reapi Uluinasau 5th try for Fiji!!! Conversion is successful. | 27 - 0 | |
| 8' Reapi score a try for Fiji!! Conversion is successful. | 34 - 0 | |
| Half Time: 34 - 0 | ||
| 11' Lavenia Cavuru score for Fiji!! Conversion is successful. | 41 - 0 | |
| 13' Adi Vani Buleki scores for Fiji!! Missed conversion. | 46 - 0 | |
| 15' Sesenieli Donu score last try to seal the win!!! Conversion is successful. | 53 - 0 | |
The Fiji Men’s 7s team will play their nemesis New Zealand in the final of the 7s World Cup after beating Australia 38-14 in the semi-final.
Filipe Sauturaga, Waisea Nacuqu and Iosefo Masi got Fiji’s tries in the first half as they led Australia 19-7 at half time.
Kaminieli Rasaku, Jeremaia Matana and Vuiviawa Naduvalo scored the tries in the second half.
New Zealand beat Ireland 17-10 in their semi-final clash.
Fiji will play NZ at 6.54 this morning in the final.
Stay with us for updates.
| Fiji | vs | Australia |
|---|---|---|
| 0' Fiji kick-off | 0 - 0 | |
| 3' Filipe Sauturaga score Fiji's first try!! Conversion is successful. | 7 - 0 | |
| 5' Waisea Nacuqu scores the second try for Fiji!! Missed conversion. | 12 - 0 | |
| 12 - 7 | 7' Nick Malouf scores his first try for Australia. Conversion is successful. | |
| 10' Iosefo Masi score for Fiji!! Conversion is successful. | 19 - 7 | |
| Full Time: 19 - 7 | ||
| 8' Rasaku scores for Fiji extending their lead. Conversion is successful. | 26 - 7 | |
| 26 - 14 | 10' Josh Turner scores the second try for Fiji!!! Conversion is successful. | |
| 12' Jeremaia Matana score another try for Fiji!! Conversion is successful. | 33 - 14 | |
| 14' Viwa Naduvalo scored the last try to seal victory for Fiji. | 38 -14 | |
| Full Time: 38 - 14 | ||
The Fijiana 7s team has beaten Ireland 24 - 0 in the 5/8 place play-off.
Fijiana will play Canada in the 5th place final at 3:53AM tomorrow morning.
| Fijiana | vs | Ireland |
|---|---|---|
| 1' Fiji kick-off | 0 - 0 | |
| 2' Adi Vani Buleke score Fiji's first try!!! Missed conversion. | 5 - 0 | |
| 4' Reapi Ulunisau scores the second try for Fiji!! Conversion is successful. | 12 - 0 | |
| Half Time: 12 -0 | ||
| 9' Raijieli Daveua score extends their lead in the second half. Conversion is successful. | 19 - 0 | |
| 11' Reapi Uluinasau score her second try!!! Missed conversion. | 24 - 0 | |
| Full Time: 24 - 0 |
The Fiji Men’s 7s team will have a slight advantage over Australia when the two sides clash in the semi final of the 7s World Cup.
The last time the two teams met was in the semi final of the LA 7s where Fiji triumphed with a 29-10 victory.
Coach Ben Gollings understands how much the 7s World Cup title means to Fiji.
While speaking after their quarter-final win against Samoa, Gollings says Fiji will love to add a third 7s World Cup title.
Fiji will play Australia at 11.33 tonight.
In the first semi final New Zealand will battle Ireland at 10.35 tonight.
The final will be played at 6.54am tomorrow.
Meanwhile, the Fijiana will play Ireland in the 5/8 place playoff at 8.40 tonight.
Fiji Men’s 7s Team Coach Ben Gollings understands how much the 7s World Cup title means to Fiji.
While speaking after their quarter-final win against Samoa, Gollings says Fiji will love to add a third 7s World Cup title.
Fiji beat Samoa 21-10 in the quarter-final this morning.
Fiji will play Australia at 11.33 tonight.
In the first semi final New Zealand will battle Ireland at 10.35 tonight.
The final will be played at 6.54am tomorrow.
Meanwhile, the Fijiana will play Ireland in the 5/8 place playoff at 8.40 tonight.
They lost to France in the quarter final 19-14.
The Fiji Men’s National 7s team will play Australia in the semi final of the 7s World Cup after beating Samoa 21-10 in the quarter final.
Samoa scored first in the corner to take a 5-0 lead.
Jerry Tuwai got Fiji back in the game with a try just before half time as Fiji led 7-5 at half time.
Kaminieli Rasaku and Sevuloni Mocenacagi got two further tries for Fiji to extend their lead to 21-5.
Samoa got a consolation try.
Fiji will play Australia at 11.33 tonight.
The cup semi finals will begin at 10.35 tonight while the final will be played at 6.54am tomorrow.
Picking the perfect line 🤌
— Rugby World Cup 7s 2022 (@WorldRugby7s) September 10, 2022
Simply sublime from @fijirugby #RWC7s | #HereToSevens pic.twitter.com/w1BjkvYK5Y
| Fiji | vs | Samoa |
|---|---|---|
| 0 - 5 | 3' Steve Onosai scored Samoa's first try!! Conversion unsuccessful. | |
| 6' Jerry Tuwai scores Fiji's first try!!! Conversion is successful. | 7 - 5 | |
| Half Time: 7 - 5 | ||
| 9' Kaminieli Rasaku scores Fiji's second try!!! Conversion is successful. | 14 - 5 | |
| 10' Sevuloni Mocenacagi score for Fiji!! Conversion is successful. | 21 - 5 | |
| 21 - 10 | 12' Steve Onosai scores their second try!! Conversion unsuccessful. | |
| Full Time: 21 - 10 | ||
The Fijiana 7s team is out of contention for the 7s World Cup title after a heartbreaking 19-14 loss to France in the quarter final.
Fijiana scored first through Ana Maria Naimasi before France got their try on the stroke of half-time.
The half-time score was 7-all.
France scored first in the second half to extend their lead to 14-7 before Naimasi got her second try to level the scores.
France broke Fijian hearts on the stroke of full time with the match winning try.
Fijiana 7s will now play Ireland in the 5/8 playoff at 8.40 tonight.
The cup semi finals will be played from 10.07 tonight while the final will be played at 6.17am tomorrow.
| Fijiana | vs | France |
|---|---|---|
| Fiji Kick-off | ||
| 3' Ana Naimasi scored Fiji's first try !! Conversion is successful. | 7 - 0 | |
| 6' Viniana Rawai yellow carded | ||
| 7 - 7 | 8' Camille Grassineau score a try on the stroke of half time!!! Conversion successful | |
| Half Time: 7 -7 | ||
| 7 - 14 | 8' Jade Ulutule score second try for France!!! Conversion is successful | |
| 14' Ana Naimasi score second try for Fiji!! Conversion successful | 14 - 14 | |
| 14 -19 | 15' Joanna Grisez score a try for France!!! | |
| Full Time: 14 - 19 | ||
Dual Olympic Gold Medallist Jerry Tuwai says this World Cup is for the team.
Tuwai who is regarded as one of the best 7s says some things are for the team and some things are personal but this is for the team.
Tuwai says he is also thankful for the crowd support.
Fiji will take on Samoa at 7.35am tomorrow.
The cup quarter finals will start at 5.35am tomorrow, the cup semi finals will begin at 10.35pm tomorrow while the final will be played at 6.54am Monday
Ana Maria Naimasi was in scintillating form for the Fijiana 7s team as they beat Japan to secure their spot in the quarter-final of the 7s World Cup.
Naimasi scored a hat-trick in the big win against Japan while Adi Vani Buleki, Raijieli Daveua and Sesenieli Donu scored a try each.
Fijiana takes on France at 7.05am tomorrow.
The cup quarter finals will start at 5.07am tomorrow, the cup semi finals will be played from 10.07pm tomorrow while the final will be played at 6.17am on Monday.
The All Blacks 7s team will play Argentina in the cup quarter final of the 7s World Cup.
The defending champions beat Scotland 43-5 in their Round of 16 match.
New Zealand plays Argentina at 5.35am tomorrow.
In other quarter finals, France will play Australia at 6.35am tomorrow while Ireland will play South Africa at 8.33am tomorrow.
The Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s team will now play Samoa in the quarter-final of the Rugby World Cup after beating Wales 29-5 in the Round of 16 match this morning.
Kaminieli Rasaku, Joseva Talacolo, and Vuiviawa Naduvalo scored a try each in the first half.
Sevuloni Mocenacagi and Elia Canakaivata both scored a try each in the second half.
Josua Vakurunabili was yellow-carded in the 7th minute of the game.
Fiji will take on Samoa at 7.35am tomorrow.
The cup quarter finals will start at 5.35am tomorrow, the cup semi finals will begin at 10.35pm tomorrow while the final will be played at 6.54am Monday.
| Date | Time | Team | Team | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
All Blacks 7s veteran playmaker, Kurt Baker is hoping the All Blacks Sevens can rise to the occasion in Cape Town to defend the Melrose Cup this weekend.
Baker says New Zealand know the expectation is on them to return home from Cape Town with the Rugby World Cup Sevens title.
As the most successful team in Rugby World Cup Sevens history and winner of the last tournament, New Zealand are amongst the favourites to lift the World Cup on Monday.
New Zealand are the only team to have won Rugby World Cup Sevens three times which was in 2001, 2013 and 2018.
They will face either Jamaica or Scotland in the Round of 16 at 3.37am tomorrow.
The Rugby World Cup Sevens is here and our Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s team and the Fijiana 7s team are ready to take on the world with an aim to make history by winning both titles this weekend.
It has been 17 years since Fiji last won the prestigious Melrose Cup and Fiji Men’s 7s coach, Ben Gollings says they are ready.
The Fiji Men’s 7s team will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea match at 4.05am tomorrow.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals where they will likely meet either USA or Samoa.
Meanwhile, Fijiana 7s coach Saiasi Fuli is looking forward to unleashing the Fijiana after their second place finish at the Commonwealth Games.
Fuli adds that they want to win the World Cup.
The Fijiana will take on Japan at 11.17 tonight.
They are likely to meet either France or South Africa at 7.05am Sunday.
With an anticipated record-breaking crowd of more than 150,000 fans set to create an unforgettable atmosphere in an iconic venue, Rugby World Cup Sevens 2022 aims to set new standards to become one of the fastest-growing Olympic sports.
The unique ‘winner takes all’ knock-out competition format first introduced at Rugby World Cup Sevens 2018 in San Francisco means every match counts as teams will need to win every time they enter the pitch in order to become world champions.
Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s coach Ben Gollings says if Fiji needs to win over top teams like New Zealand, South Africa and Australia in the Rugby World Cup Sevens this weekend, the players need to get their mental focus right.
Gollings says players sometimes can get carried away with emotions but they will make sure that other teams do not get the upper hand.
Fiji will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea match at 4.05am Saturday.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals.
Fijiana 7s robust winger Alowesi Nakoci will be a player to watch when she makes her Rugby Sevens World Cup debut this weekend and it will mark a remarkable recovery for the Olympic bronze medallist.
Nakoci was hospitalised in June after she was stabbed while trying to stop an argument between two people in Suva.
She subsequently missed the Commonwealth Games but has returned to the Fijiana squad for the show-piece tournament in South Africa.
Fijiana coach Saiasi Fuli says Nakoci’s return will add the spark that the girls are missing.
Nakoci had been in prolific form in the 2022 Series, scoring 23 tries including 15 in her last 12 appearances for the Fijiana.
The Fijiana will take on Japan at 11.17pm tomorrow.
Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s coach Ben Gollings says they have worked on making sure that players understand the importance of keeping possession ahead of the Rugby World Cup Sevens in Cape Town this weekend.
Gollings says this is an area that they have addressed as the leadership team will make sure the game management is on point.
Fiji will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea match at 4.05am Saturday.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals.
Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s coach, Ben Gollings believes that Jerry Tuwai will want to add a Melrose Cup to his cabinet.
Tuwai, who has won two Olympic Gold medals and was named World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year in 2019 is still chasing a World Cup.
Gollings says the veteran playmaker has been in good form this season and only time will tell about his dream.
Fiji will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea at 4.05am Saturday.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals.
Fiji Airways National 7s coach Ben Gollings has today confirmed that France based Sireli Maqala will not be part of the team for the Rugby World Cup Sevens due to visa issues.
Maqala was initially named in the 13-member squad and was supposed to join the camp this week in preparation for the World Cup.
His South African visa was delayed and has forced Gollings to make this decision.
Gollings says this will not hinder the teams preparations.
Fiji will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea at 4.05am Saturday.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals.
2005 Rugby World Cup Sevens winners Viliame Satala and Sireli Bobo have combined with Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s coach, Ben Gollings to prepare the national side on the quest to win Fiji’s third Melrose Cup.
Gollings can still remember their semi final loss against Fiji where Waisale Serevi beat him to score the match winner.
With Satala and Bobo part of the coaching team, Gollings says this is a perfect support group that the players need especially hearing their experience on how they dealt with pressure in 2005.
Gollings adds that most of the current players grew up idolizing Satala and Bobo.
Fiji will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea at 4.05am Saturday.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals.
It will be a do or die situation for the Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s team in every game of the World Cup this weekend.
This is due to the unique format.
Fiji will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea at 4.05am Saturday.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals.
Coach Ben Gollings says every match will be a cup final.
South Africa 7s Head Coach Neil Powell has named legend Cecil Afrika in their Rugby 7s World Cup squad, which will be held in Cape Town, South Africa.
The final 12-member squad will be named on Wednesday.
10 of the players in the squad helped South Africa to win the gold at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games in July.
Dewald Human and Zain Davids have not been included due to injuries in Los Angeles.
Afrika will replace Human.
He made his World Series debut for Blitzboks in Dubai in 2009 and last played for his country in Vancouver in March 2020.
The 34-year-old is South Africa’s all-time leading points-scorer in the World Series with 1,462 despite not playing for over two years.
The Rugby 7s World Cup will be held from next Friday to Sunday.
[Source: planetrugby.com]
All Blacks 7s veteran playmaker, Kurt Baker is hoping the All Blacks Sevens can rise to the occasion in Cape Town to defend the Melrose Cup this weekend.
Baker says New Zealand know the expectation is on them to return home from Cape Town with the Rugby World Cup Sevens title.
As the most successful team in Rugby World Cup Sevens history and winner of the last tournament, New Zealand are amongst the favourites to lift the World Cup on Monday.
New Zealand are the only team to have won Rugby World Cup Sevens three times which was in 2001, 2013 and 2018.
They will face either Jamaica or Scotland in the Round of 16 at 3.37am tomorrow.
The Rugby World Cup Sevens is here and our Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s team and the Fijiana 7s team are ready to take on the world with an aim to make history by winning both titles this weekend.
It has been 17 years since Fiji last won the prestigious Melrose Cup and Fiji Men’s 7s coach, Ben Gollings says they are ready.
The Fiji Men’s 7s team will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea match at 4.05am tomorrow.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals where they will likely meet either USA or Samoa.
Meanwhile, Fijiana 7s coach Saiasi Fuli is looking forward to unleashing the Fijiana after their second place finish at the Commonwealth Games.
Fuli adds that they want to win the World Cup.
The Fijiana will take on Japan at 11.17 tonight.
They are likely to meet either France or South Africa at 7.05am Sunday.
With an anticipated record-breaking crowd of more than 150,000 fans set to create an unforgettable atmosphere in an iconic venue, Rugby World Cup Sevens 2022 aims to set new standards to become one of the fastest-growing Olympic sports.
The unique ‘winner takes all’ knock-out competition format first introduced at Rugby World Cup Sevens 2018 in San Francisco means every match counts as teams will need to win every time they enter the pitch in order to become world champions.
Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s coach Ben Gollings says if Fiji needs to win over top teams like New Zealand, South Africa and Australia in the Rugby World Cup Sevens this weekend, the players need to get their mental focus right.
Gollings says players sometimes can get carried away with emotions but they will make sure that other teams do not get the upper hand.
Fiji will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea match at 4.05am Saturday.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals.
Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s coach Ben Gollings says they have worked on making sure that players understand the importance of keeping possession ahead of the Rugby World Cup Sevens in Cape Town this weekend.
Gollings says this is an area that they have addressed as the leadership team will make sure the game management is on point.
Fiji will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea match at 4.05am Saturday.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals.
Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s coach, Ben Gollings believes that Jerry Tuwai will want to add a Melrose Cup to his cabinet.
Tuwai, who has won two Olympic Gold medals and was named World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year in 2019 is still chasing a World Cup.
Gollings says the veteran playmaker has been in good form this season and only time will tell about his dream.
Fiji will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea at 4.05am Saturday.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals.
Eight Fijiana 7s players from the Rugby 7s World Cup squad will be joining the Rooster Chicken Fijiana 15s camp next week in preparation for the Women's Rugby World Cup in New Zealand next month.
This was confirmed by Fijiana coach Senirusi Seruvakula.
He says the 7s players have shown their interest to play for the 15s team, however, they will still have to fight for their spot in the squad.
The 8 players are Rusila Nagasau, Reapi Uluinasau, Vasiti Solikoviti, Ana Maria Naimasi, Sesenieli Donu, Verenaisi Bari, Lavena Cavuru and Aloesi Nakoci.
Meanwhile, the Fijiana 15s side thrashed the Army Women's side 47-0 in a warm-up match at Albert Park today.
The Women's Rugby World Cup will be held from 8th October to 12th November.
Fiji Airways National 7s coach Ben Gollings has today confirmed that France based Sireli Maqala will not be part of the team for the Rugby World Cup Sevens due to visa issues.
Maqala was initially named in the 13-member squad and was supposed to join the camp this week in preparation for the World Cup.
His South African visa was delayed and has forced Gollings to make this decision.
Gollings says this will not hinder the teams preparations.
Fiji will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea at 4.05am Saturday.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals.
2005 Rugby World Cup Sevens winners Viliame Satala and Sireli Bobo have combined with Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s coach, Ben Gollings to prepare the national side on the quest to win Fiji’s third Melrose Cup.
Gollings can still remember their semi final loss against Fiji where Waisale Serevi beat him to score the match winner.
With Satala and Bobo part of the coaching team, Gollings says this is a perfect support group that the players need especially hearing their experience on how they dealt with pressure in 2005.
Gollings adds that most of the current players grew up idolizing Satala and Bobo.
Fiji will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea at 4.05am Saturday.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals.
Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s coach, Ben Gollings has reflected on the 2005 World Cup Sevens and rated their semifinal loss against Fiji as one of the most intense and best games he played.
With the 7s World Cup set to start on Friday, the former English captain says having Viliame Satala and Sireli Bobo part of the national sevens coaching team has boosted the players preparations.
Gollings adds that most of the current players grew up idolizing Satala who is now part of their journey.
Fiji will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea at 4.05 am Saturday.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals.
It will be a do or die situation for the Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s team in every game of the World Cup this weekend.
This is due to the unique format.
Fiji will begin their campaign in the Round of 16 against the winner of Wales and Korea at 4.05am Saturday.
If Fiji wins, they will qualify for the quarter-finals.
Coach Ben Gollings says every match will be a cup final.
The Fijiana 7s team is aiming to create history in women’s rugby in Fiji when they take part in the Rugby 7s World Cup in South Africa.
Captain Rusila Nagasau says they have their game-plan ready and they have prepared well for this tournament.
She is also thankful that the new girls have put their hands up for selection as it is something that pushes the older players to go beyond their own abilities.
The Fijiana 7s will play their first match against Japan at 11.17pm Friday.
South Africa 7s Head Coach Neil Powell has named legend Cecil Afrika in their Rugby 7s World Cup squad, which will be held in Cape Town, South Africa.
The final 12-member squad will be named on Wednesday.
10 of the players in the squad helped South Africa to win the gold at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games in July.
Dewald Human and Zain Davids have not been included due to injuries in Los Angeles.
Afrika will replace Human.
He made his World Series debut for Blitzboks in Dubai in 2009 and last played for his country in Vancouver in March 2020.
The 34-year-old is South Africa’s all-time leading points-scorer in the World Series with 1,462 despite not playing for over two years.
The Rugby 7s World Cup will be held from next Friday to Sunday.
[Source: planetrugby.com]
Fiji Airways Men’s 7s coach Ben Gollings says they have an elusive set of forwards that is attached to a fast and smart backline ahead of the Rugby Sevens World Cup in Cape Town.
Gollings says that having Sireli Maqala back in the team will provide more options in the backline that can see Kaminieli Rasaku more in the wing.
Fiji will play the winner of Wales and Korea in their first match of the World Cup at 4.05am next Saturday while the Fijiana will take on Japan at 11.17pm Friday in their first match.
New Zealand is the defending champion for both Women’s and Men’s title.
Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s coach, Ben Gollings says their biggest challenge comes with their forwards ahead of the Rugby Sevens World Cup in Cape Town.
Gollings says the inclusion of Josefa Talacolo is a bonus to them after his performance in LA while Elia Canakaivata will add some strength to the forwards.
For the first time, Gollings is taking six forwards who are highly competitive and skillful.
The national side has arrived in South Africa and Gollings says he is excited to see what the players will do.
Fiji will play the winner of Wales and Korea in their first match of the World Cup at 4.05am next Saturday while the Fijiana will take on Japan at 11.17pm Friday in their first match.
The Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s coach Ben Gollings says they are fully aware of the pressure that they will get from the supporters of South Africa at the Rugby Sevens World Cup.
Gollings has named his 13 players for Cape Town and says this is what they have been training for.
Meanwhile Sireli Maqala is the only new inclusion from the LA 7s squad.
Gollings has named Waisea Nacuqu as captain.
The other players are Josua Vakurunabili, Josefa Talacolo, Jerry Matana, Sevuloni Mocenacagi, Elia Canakaivata, Iosefo Masi, Jerry Tuwai, Filipo Bukayaro, Filipe Sauturaga, Kaminieli Rasaku and Vuiviyawa Naduvalo.
The Rugby Sevens World Cup will be held from next Friday to Sunday in Cape Town, South Africa.
| Date | Time | Team | Team | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s team to the Rugby Sevens World Cup has been named with Sireli Maqala the only new inclusion from the LA 7s squad.
Coach Ben Gollings has named Waisea Nacuqu to captain the national side in their quest to win the Melrose Cup since 2005.
The players are Josua Vakurunabili, Josefa Talacolo, Jerry Matana, Sevuloni Mocenacagi, Elia Canakaivata, Iosefo Masi, Jerry Tuwai, Filipo Bukayaro, Filipe Sauturaga, Kaminieli Rasaku and Vuiviyawa Naduvalo.
The Rugby Sevens World Cup will be held from next Friday to Sunday in Cape Town, South Africa.
| Date | Time | Team | Team | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The Fijiana 7s team has set a target of winning the Women’s Rugby 7s World Cup in Cape Town this month.
Coach, Saiasi Fuli says they have picked their best players to go and deliver this objective.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama presented the Fijiana with their new jerseys and also wished them well for the tournament in South Africa.
Fuli has named his 13 member squad with the notable inclusion of speedster Aloesi Nakoci who is making a return after missing out in the Commonwealth games due to injury.
Other players include captain Rusila Nagasau, Lavenia Tinai, Rejieli Daveua, Vasiti Solikoviti, Lavena Cavuru, Reapi Uluinasau, Viniana Riwai, Ana Naimasi, Sesenieli Donu, Vani Buleki, Verenaisi Bari and Laisani Moceisawana.
The Rugby 7s World Cup will be held from the 9th to the 11th of this month.
Fijiana 7s Head Coach Saiasi Fuli has named a strong team for the Rugby 7s World Cup in Cape Town, South Africa where winger Aloesi Nakoci is making a return.
Nakoci was not available for selection for the 2022 Commonwealth Games due to an injury.
Fuli has retained captain Rusila Nagasau and winger Lavenia Tinai, who are the only two that played at the World Cup four years ago.
Other players named in the Fijiana 7s side include Rejieli Daveua, Vasiti Solikoviti, Lavena Cavuru, Reapi Uluinasau, Viniana Riwai, Ana Naimasi, Sesenieli Donu, Vani Buleki, Verenaisi Bari and Laisani Moceisawana. The Rugby 7s World Cup will be held from next Friday to Sunday.
Fijiana 7s Team to Rugby World Cup
1. Rusila Nagasau- {c}
2. Rejieli Daveua
3. Vani Buleki
4. Vasiti Solikoviti
5. Verenaisi Bari
6. Lavena Cavuru
7. Reapi Uluinasau
8. Viniana Riwai
9. Sesenieli Donu
10. Ana Naimasi
11. Aloesi Nakoci
12. Laisani Moceisawana
13. Lavenia Tinai
Tyla Nathan-Wong will miss next weekend’s Sevens World Cup with the Black Ferns Sevens because of a concussion.
She made her test debut as a halfback in 15s for the Black Ferns, coming off the bench in the second half against Australia in Christchurch 11 days ago, but she had to leave the field with a head injury.
The 28-year-old hasn’t recovered in time to travel for the tournament in Cape Town.
[Source: Stuff]
All Blacks 7s coach Clark Laidlaw has named his final squad to defend the Melrose Cup in the 2022 Rugby Sevens World Cup in Cape Town next month.
Sam Dickson and Sione Molia are the co captains for the team while Akuila Rokolisoa gets the nod to play in his second World Cup.
The other players are Kurt Baker, Dylan Colllier, Scott Curry, Moses Leo, Ngarohi McGarvey-Black, Tone Ng Shiu, Amanaki Nicole, Lewis Ormond, Brady Rush, Caleb Tangitau and Regan Ware.
Laidlaw says the exciting part of the win in LA was the emergence of some players that do not always get a lot of game time which has tested their depth.
The All Blacks 7s is the defending champion of the Melrose Cup after they defeated England 33-12 in the final in 2018.
Meanwhile Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s coach Ben Gollings is expected to name our final squad next week.
The Rugby Sevens World Cup will be held from the 9th to the 11th of next month in Cape Town, South Africa.
Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s coach Ben Gollings says Olympians Sireli Maqala and Aminiasi Tuimaba are still available for selection ahead of the Rugby Sevens World Cup.
Gollings says the duo have declared their availability after the Commonwealth Games.
He adds that this depth of players' options will strengthen their restarts and offer more options in the forwards.
The Rugby World Cup Sevens will be held on the 9th to the 11th of September in Cape Town, South Africa.
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