Taina Basiyalo 
The Fijiana 15’s team faced a challenging encounter in their first Test match after losing 24-15 to Japan at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
The hosts started strongly with flanker Nunia Daunimoala scoring inside the first five minutes thanks to some brilliant work by fullback Luisa Tisolo.
The Naitasiri lass put Fiji on the scoreboard first with an unconverted try.
Tisolo also slotted a penalty for Fiji.
However, the momentum shifted due to ill-discipline and missed opportunities for Fiji.
Indiscipline, loose carries and basic mistakes proved costly for the hosts.
Japan fielded a squad brimming with experienced who maintained their momentum from the outset.
They managed to score a converted try and a penalty to lead 10-8 at the break.
The Fijiana team suffered further setbacks with yellow cards issued to Sulita Waisega late in the first half and Atelaite Buna in the second spell.
Merewairita Neivosa got Fiji’s second try after the break.
Despite their efforts to rally and maintain hope for their supporters the Fijiana could not overcome the resilient Japanese team who secured the victory with another two tries.
The second Test will be played at Churchill Park in Lautoka on Thursday at 6pm.
The game will be LIVE on FBC Sports.
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