Prime Minister Bainimarama Congratulates 7s Team On Win
Head coach Gareth Baber dedicated the win to the victims of the recent Christchurch terror attacks.
Monday 08 April 2019 | 11:29
The victorious Fiji Airways Fijian 7s team after winning the Hong Kong 7s for a record fifth time in a row on the main dais at the Hong Kong Stadium on April 7, 2019. The Fijians beat France 21-7 in the Cup final. Photo: Bruce Southwick/Zoom Fiji
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama heaped praise on the Fiji Airways Fijian 7s team last night for winning the Hong Kong 7s a record five times in row at the Hong Kong Stadium.
The Fijians overcame a nervy start to topple France 21-7 in a pulsating encounter that saw Australian referee James Doleman flashing three yellow cards – two to Fiji and one to France.
“Congratulations to the team for another wonderful win in Hong Kong, making it five in a row ... just wonderful,” Mr Bainimarama said.
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Head coach Gareth Baber dedicated the win to the victims of the recent Christchurch terror attacks.
“It’s a fantastic feeling (to win) and I’m sure it will sink in over the next two or three days,” Baber said in a post-match interview.
“All of this has been in the backdrop of what’s happened in Christchurch. Our thoughts go out to all those families. This is a dedication to them.”
Winger Aminiasi Tuimaba, whose two tries helped Fiji claim the win, was given the player-of-the-final award.
Tuimaba, with seven tries, was the second-highest try scorer at the tournament, two behind USA’s Carlin Isles.
“Firstly, I want to thank the Lord for his plans for me. Winning the Hong Kong 7s is a dream come true,” he said.
“I want to thank my family back at home, my three boys and especially my grandparents. I know they will be watching right now and I want to dedicate this (win) to them.”
“I also want to thank our supporters who have come out in numbers. God bless them all.”
Edited by Percy Kean
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