Fiji U20 captain Nolan May admitted being caught off guard when Tonga launched a comeback in the second half following their 39-25 win in their opening game of the inaugural Oceania Rugby Under 20s Challenge in Auckland yesterday.
Flanker Ebenezer Navula, Number 8 Rupeni Nakiyoyo and Hooker Joshua Uluibau scored a try each in a one-way affair in the first half to see Fiji ahead 29-3 at half-time.
Tonga rallied back, scoring three quick tries within the first 10 minutes in the second half to narrow the gap to 27-22. Fortunately, Fiji earned a penalty to push the margin out to ten, and for the remainder of the encounter did well to keep the Tongans at bay to secure the win.
May told Oceania Rugby: “We try to keep them guessing, keep them on their heels, and play the Fijian style. We got caught off guard in the second half, but we just regrouped on the field, and stayed together.”
Fiji will take on Moana Pasifika in round two on Saturday, March 2, at 2.30 pm (Fiji Time).
Photo: Oceania Rugby
