Savenaca Rawaca’s last minute try helped the Vodafone Fijian 7s team edge Japan 21-17 in a close call during their second pool game at the new World Sevens Series in Dubai last night.

Influential player Vatemo Ravouvou got Fiji off to a good start scoring their first try just 26 seconds into the first half; a successful conversion put Fiji in the lead 7-0.

Three minutes later Seremaia Tuwai scored another try with the Fijians running circles around the Japanese defence; another successful conversion by Ravouvou extended Fiji’s lead, 14-0.

Japan settled in quickly as they began to capitalise on their ball possession but good defence by Fiji stopped them in their tracks.

Just before halftime, Ravouvou earned himself a yellow card for a foul on Japan and Fiji had chances to further their lead but captain Osea Kolinisau ended the first half kicking the ball out as Fiji were comfortable with their 14-0 lead.

Japan came back stronger in the second half, not wasting any time and applying pressure on the Fijian defence.

Basic mistakes by Fiji cost them as Japan’s Shohei Toyosima not only scored Japan’s first try to close the gap but also converted it to bring the score to 14-7.

Poor handling errors by Fiji and allowing six missed tackles allowed Toyosima to score another try and convert it closing the gap to 12-14.

Hungry for a win, Japan took advantage of Fiji as they struggled to settle down in the game with yet another try from Josefa Lilidamu to take the lead over Fiji, 17-14.

Fighting hard to keep Fiji, Japan worked hard to keep Fiji at bay in their own 22.

With just seconds left to play, Fiji showcased incredible support play which led Rawaca to score the final try of the match; Ravouvou again with a successful conversion ended the match in their favour 21-17.