An incredible defensive effort by the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians led to a 29-19 win over Tonga in the Pasifika Challenge at Eden Park in Auckland tonight.
Fiji led 17-12 at half time.
It was a physical encounter that resulted in both teams cut to 14 players in the final minutes of the match. The yellow card was shown to both Tonga and Fiji’s number eights Maama Vaipulu and Peceli Yato.
The win was particularly special for veteran centre Vereniki Goneva who extended his lead as Fiji’s leading try scorer. He scored his 21st test try. Josua Tuisova, Goneva, Semi Kunatani, Dominiko Waqaniburotu and Sam Matavesi all scored tries for Fiji.
This was the Flying Fijians final match before the Rugby World Cup next month. Samoa also beat New Zealand Heartland XV 36-19 in their Pasifika Challenge match. Samoa will now face the Wallabies next weekend.
The Flying Fijians opening match in the Rugby World Cup is against the Wallabies on 21st September at 4.45pm.
Source: Fiji Village
Featured image: Atieli Pakalani of Tonga is tackled by Peceli Yato of Fiji during the International Friendly match between Fiji and Tonga at Eden Park(Photo by Dave Rowland/Getty Images)
