Fiji made a superb start to their Pacific Nations Cup campaign when they sealed a hard-fought 36-20 victory over Tonga in Lautoka on Saturday.
In a fast-paced and entertaining encounter, Fiji held the upper-hand for most of this match, but unlike the previous Test between these sides – which Fiji won 36-0 in Suva last year – the ‘Ikale Tahi were more competitive.
Solid Test debut or Caleb Muntz
In the end, Fiji proved too strong, however, and they eventually outscored their visitors by five tries to three while debutant fly-half Caleb Muntz had a solid outing as he contributed nine points courtesy of three conversions and a penalty.
Fiji made a fantastic start, and after an extended period of pressure inside Tonga’s half, they were rewarded with a penalty try, and Tonga’s flanker Tanginoa Halaifonua was also yellow carded for his indiscretion, which led to the score.
The hosts continued to dominate and held a 19-0 lead by the 12th minute after their captain, Waisea Nayacalevu, and Sam Matavesi crossed for tries in quick succession.
Tonga needed a response, and they did just that by playing a tighter game, with their forwards more prominent during the rest of the half, and that tactic reaped rewards as Siua Maile and Halaleva Fifita crossed for tries.
Otumaka Mausia succeeded with one conversion and also added a penalty which meant the ‘Ikale Tahi were back in the game as they trailed their hosts by four points.
Despite the visitors’ fightback, Fiji responded when Josua Tuisova crossed for another converted try which meant they held a 26-15 lead at half-time.
The second half was a tighter affair, and Tonga were fastest out of the blocks when replacement back Kyren Taumoefolau crossed for their third try after Charles Piutau had done well in the build-up.
With the score 26-20 to the home side, Tonga were back in the match, and they continued to be competitive for the rest of the second half.
Tight battle
The game’s final quarter was a closely fought battle characterised by great physicality from both sides. In the 70th minute, Muntz slotted a penalty after Tonga were blown up for straying offside on defence.
That gave Fiji some breathing space, and they secured victory in the game’s closing stages when Peni Matawalu crossed for their fifth five-ponter after a strong driving maul.
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