The Fiji 7s team meet Japan after their clash [Source: World Rugby Sevens]

Olympic Games rugby 7s champion Fiji has started its campaign with a win following a 24-19 win over Japan.

The national side was tested in its first match by a determined Japan team.

Fiji started well with less than a minute, Jiuta Wainiqolo ran straight through two Japanese defenders to score.

However, a Wainiqolo mistake saw Japan through for a converted try, but straight from the kick-off, Iosefo Masi raced away to dot down for Fiji’s second.

Just before halftime Japan managed to score a team try through Namatakula villager Lote Tuqiri as the hosts led 14-12 at the break.

[Source: FASANOC]

Another Fijian, Kameli Soejima got Japan further in the lead with an unconverted try just after halftime as they led 19-12.

Fiji tried to put a few phases together but successive mistakes from Sireli Maqala and Aminiasi Tuimaba didn’t help their cause but their defensive was sound which resulted in a try to Waisea Nacuqu.

Nacuqu later ran in another try for a 24-19 lead with less than two minutes to play.

Replacement player Asaeli Tuivuaka was sent to the bin for what the referee deemed as a deliberate knock on.

Fiji’s second match will be against Canada at 8 tonight.

The final group game will be held tomorrow at 12;30pm against Great Britain.

On the eve of the games, Men’s 7s Coach Gareth Baber’s family has sent him and the team good wishes. #TokyoOlympics2020 #HowWeSevens🇫🇯🇫🇯🔥 pic.twitter.com/f55LpGCBGg

— Fiji Rugby Union (@fijirugby) July 25, 2021