Alowesi Nakoci scored twice in Fijiana's win over France [Source: World Rugby Sevens]
The Fiji Airways Fijiana has created history by playing in a back to back World Sevens Series tournament final for the first time.
This is after they defeated Olympic silver medalists France 17-12 in its final pool match to finish the group unbeaten in Dubai.
Fijiana’s defence stood out, leaving no room for the French speedsters to run through.
One portion of the Fijiana flair please 🌪#HSBC7s | #Dubai7s | @fijirugby pic.twitter.com/8187bOzpdI
— World Rugby Sevens (@WorldRugby7s) December 4, 2021
France scored first, capitalizing off a knock-on from the Fijiana meters away from their own try line.
Set-piece play from the Frenh sent Camille Grassineau over the tryline.
Desperate play from both sides saw the ball being tossed around, Fijian benefitted from this as they got possession, spread it wide to Aloesi Nakoci who raced from coast to coast to put Fiji on the board.
The return of the no-look👀❌#HSBC7s | #Dubai7s | @FranceRugby pic.twitter.com/AHTmgwaInP
— World Rugby Sevens (@WorldRugby7s) December 4, 2021
Fijiana led France 7-5 at halftime.
Nakoci struck again a minute into the second spell, using her pace well to out run the French defenders.
They punished France again minutes after with Nadroga lass Reapi Uluinasau showcasing some skillful footwork, side-stepping the French defenders to score Fijiana’s third try.
Like the Cup final match itself, it’s 🇦🇺 v 🇫🇯 at the top of the women’s standings in Dubai
Who are you backing?@DHLRugby | #DHLImpactPlayer pic.twitter.com/W4HQCr42yE
— World Rugby Sevens (@WorldRugby7s) December 4, 2021
France hit back with Joanna Grisez fanning off a Fijian defender to give them some hope.
With a converted try separating the two, the French showed desperation but luck wasn’t on their side as their final pass couldn’t connect, handing the Fijiana their second HSBC 7s final.
Fijiana will once again contest for the gold medal against Australia.
Australia defeated Russia 26-17.