World Rugby Pacific Challenge: A Star Is Born
Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors winger Tira Patterson showed his class by scoring three tries as they walloped Junior Japan 66-24 during the second round of the World Rugby Pacific Challenge at the ANZ Stadium, Suva last night.
What happened: Warriors never looked back as they took a 5-0 lead in the 5th minute when centre Veresa Tuqovu scored the first try. Although Japan tried hard to fightback the Warriors went on score tries through winger Veramu Dikidikilati, Flying Fijians flanker Mosese Voka and Patterson with Caleb Muntz landing three conversions.
Junior Japan scored their tries through Yuko Mochizuki and Siosaia Fifta with Tomoki Kishioka landing a conversion.
Halfime: Warriors 26-12 Junior Japan
Warriors never looked back with tries to Frank Lomani followed by Patteron’s double with Muntz kicking over two conversions. Warriors Vere Vugakoto and Fabiano Navabale took the field as they continued scoring tries to Tuidraki Samusamuvodre and Navabale while Junior Japan ran in two tries.
Fiji Warriors Tira Patterson shakes off Junior Japan defenders during 2019 World Rugby Pacific Challenge at ANZ Stadium on March 12, 2019. Photo: Ronald Kumar.
Comments: Junior Japan coach Yoshitake Mizuma said: “I think we gave away a lot of opportunities to our opposition despite holding on to the ball for most of the time. We will try and utilise our attacking strengths for our next game against the Tongans.”
Fijian Warriors coach Senirusi Seruvakula said: “It was a tough game for us as we managed to rectify our mistakes in the first game against Tonga A and what triggered us was that we had a good start.
“There is a lot of talent in the side as it’s something positive that will boost the skill level of the players.
“I’m glad that we utilised the speed of the players by playing far wide across the field which created a lot of opportunities for us to execute. We’re aware that Samoa will come firing on Saturday and we’re ready to defend the PRC title.”
Edited by Leone Cabenatabua
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