Canada shows attacking strength despite Fiji's PNC final berth
By Grant FeeleyFiji secured their place in the Pacific Nations Cup final, defeating Canada 45-29 in Osaka, Japan. While Fiji, as defending champions and a higher-ranked side, ultimately proved superior, the Canadian team exceeded expectations with an ambitious attacking performance, scoring four tries against the formidable Fijians.
The match began with a quick succession of scores for Fiji. Kitione Salawa charged down Jason Higgins's initial clearance to score within the first minute. Shortly after, Joji Nasova broke through the Canadian defense, setting up Frank Lomani for Fiji's second try. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula converted both difficult attempts, establishing a 14-0 lead for Fiji Fiji clinched their spot.
Canadian resilience and early exchanges
Canada found momentum a few minutes later, working their way into scoring position. Mason Flesch capitalized, punching through to score under the posts and open Canada's account. However, Canadian pressure soon turned into Fijian points when a spilled ball in contact allowed Lomani to free Manasa Mataele, with Armstrong-Ravula ultimately scoring Fiji's third try against the run of play. Robert McMullin added a long-range penalty goal for Canada.
Fiji continued their scoring surge when Peni Ravai burst onto a Tevita Ikanivere offload for another try. Before halftime, Sion Perry provided a boost for the Maple Leafs, stepping back inside the last defender to narrow the score to 26-17 at the break. Despite the deficit, Canada demonstrated their attacking intent and ability to challenge the Fijian defense Canada's four-try performance.
Fiji extends lead, Canada fights back
The first 20 minutes of the second half saw Fiji assert further dominance. Tevita Ikanivere scored a try, taking advantage of a depleted Canadian defense. Motikiai Murray then capitalized on an Armstrong-Ravula cross-kick to Nasova, barging over on the left side. Murray secured his second try at the hour mark, breaking from a maul to stretch Fiji's lead to 45-17 after the conversion.
Despite the significant deficit, Canada showed no signs of capitulation. Slick passing from Cooper Coats and Robert McMullin sent Kyle Tremblay into the corner for a try. Mason Flesch then showcased individual brilliance, hacking a loose ball downfield, winning the foot race, and crashing over for his second try of the match, bringing the score to 45-29 with ten minutes remaining Mason Flesch earned a double.
Discipline and match conclusion
Fiji faced late disciplinary challenges, with Isoa Nasilasila receiving a red card for a dangerous clearout. Terio Tamani was then sin-binned for a deliberate knock-on, reducing Fiji to 13 men. However, the Fijians held firm, preventing any further Canadian scores. A crucial scrum penalty deep in their own end allowed them to kick the ball dead as time expired, securing the victory.
Both teams are now set to travel to Tokyo for the second and final round of the Pacific Nations Cup next weekend. Fiji will face the winner of the match between Japan and the USA, while Canada will play the loser, with both sides hoping to build on their performances in Osaka. Readers can find more USA Rugby news on our site.