[Source: Fiji Rugby]

The Fiji Airways Fiji men’s 7s side edged South Africa 14-12 in a pulsating quarterfinal clash last night in the Perth 7s.

The Blitzbokke were on the scoreboard first with a try to Ryan Oosthuizen in the third minute.

Nippy halfback Terio Tamani, who has been a standout player throughout the tournament replied with a try in the eighth minute.

In tit-for-tat fashion, South Africa hit back with a try to Tristan Leyds and the successful conversion saw the Blitzbokke lead 12-7 in the 10th minute.

Debutant Ropate Rere once again proved why he deserves a spot in the side with a try in the 12th minute which was converted by Tamani as Fiji led 14-12.

South Africa tried hard to score the winning try but Fiji maintained its discipline and stern defence to secure the win and progress to the semi-finals.

Veteran playmaker Waisea Nacuqu acknowledged the players’ effort to work together to get the win against a quality side like South Africa.

“First of all I want to thank the Lord for giving us the strength, it was a good game, a tough game. I want to thank the boys for giving their effort and we win this and we prepare for the big game, the semi-final.”

Fiji will face hosts Australia in the semi-final today at 5:34pm.

The first cup semi-final will see Argentina take on Ireland at 5:10pm.

Meanwhile the Fiji Airways Fijiana side narrowly missed out on a cup semi-final spot after losing to Ireland 14-12 yesterday in the quarterfinal of the Perth 7s.

Talei Wilson scored the opening try in the 2nd minute.

Ireland then hit back with two successive tries for a 14-5 lead at the breather.

Vani Buleki added another try in the second spell but the Fijiana missed the conversion to level the scores and force a sudden death.

The Fijiana will now face Canada in the 7th place playoff at 6:15pm.