Fiji to face Pumas for plate

Fiji Times - Monday, February 11, 2008 11:15 AM

FIJI managed to survive a fiery England outfit to beat the Poms 21-14 and make the plate final at San Diego.

Argentina beat Scotland 22-14.

Having gone behind twice in the match, Fiji managed to fight back and score three tries to get the much needed win.

England’s giant wing Uche Oduoza managed to shrug off Fijian tacklers and run the length of the field to score the first try.

Ben Gollings converted. England 7-0.

Fiji just didn’t have the reply and made mistakes which have not been seen in recent years.

However some good thinking by veteran Setafano Cakau saw the Prison warden set up Ratu Akuila Nacolaiviu score. Neumi Nanuku converted as both teams rested 7-7 at the break.

England got its second try after the break when Dominic Shabbo managed to beat lazy tackles and scored under the posts. Gollings added the extra two. England 14-7.

This fired up Fiji which started to get its acts together and while the performance wasn’t as good, the side managed to get two tries.

First it was Police player, Viliame Maya who dotted down and this was converted as Fiji drew level 14-14.

Tailevu wing Malakai Bakaniceva got the winning try which Taniela Rawaqa converted.

Fiji 21 England 14.

England almost got its third try but a good tackle by Emosi Vucago denied this.