Fijiana Xvs Go Down Fighting In World Cup Opener

The Fijiana XVs need to score a big win against South Africa, next Sunday, if they are to restore lost pride.

And also keep their slim chances of making it to the next round of the Women’s Rugby World Cup alive.

The Sereima Leweniqila captained-side put on a sterling performance in the World Cup debut as they took on world’s number one England.

They fell apart in the second half and were walloped 84-19.

They held England 24-14 at halftime with breathtaking tries from Aloesi Nakoci from a Roela Radiniyavuni break and was followed by a Sesenieli Donu try with Vitalina Naikore landing the conversions.

It was all England in the second spell with Lavena Cavuru scoring our lone try.

Meanwhile, France thrashed South Africa 40-5 in their Pool C opener.

England 84 (Claudia MacDonald 4, Amy Cokayne 2, Lydia Thompson 2, Abbie Ward, Helena Rowland, Zoe Aldcroft, Abby Dow, Leanne Infante, Connie Powell tries; Emily Scarratt 5, Zoe Harrison 2 con) Fiji 19 (Alowesi Nakoci, Sesenieli Donu, Lavena Cavuru tries; Cavuru 2 con). HT: 24-14.

Story By: Leone Cabenatabua

Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj