Fiji Beat USA to Win HSBC Cape Town Sevens

Fiji’s 29-15 victory over USA in the final of the HSBC Cape Town Sevens on Sunday, saw the Fijian side secure their first win in South Africa since 2009.

The result see’s runner up USA take the lead in the World Series standings with New Zealand just one point behind in second with Fiji and England in third and fourth respectively.

In the final Fiji captain Kalione Nasoko opened the scoring with a solo run after some excellent Fiji defending, before they were handed two gift tries. First Vilimoni Botitu got between a Madison Hughes pass and was free to run from deep in his own half, and then Perry Baker fumbled a one-handed play for Sevuloni Mocenacagi to capitalise leaving the score 17-0 at half time.

Botitu, who won HSBC Player of the Final, exploited a gap after half time and despite Ben Pinkelman’s two tries, Fiji were too far clear. Nasoko’s line break allowed his second and Carlin Isles capped the final with a brilliant run to the corner, but USA finished second for the second consecutive event.

Fiji head coach Gareth Baber, said, “It’s been a long time coming for the Fijians to win in Cape Town. We were disappointed last week that we didn’t manage to perform to the level that we’ve done this week. It makes me most proud that these players have done everything for their families back home and the country of Fiji. It’s great. Fijian fans are everywhere in the world, wherever we travel, and we say a big thank you to all those who make a big effort to come and support us. We’ve had some battles, most notably South Africa in the semi-finals, but all credit to the players and staff – they’ve manned up.”

Earlier in the day hosts South Africa beat New Zealand 10-5 to secure the bronze medal while England secured fifth with a 14-7 victory over Spain.

The Challenge Trophy winners were Argentina after day two results against Kenya, Canada and Samoa in the final.

The next stop on the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series is Hamilton 26-27 January.

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