Sports

South Africa beat Fiji in thriller

April 5, 2015 6:55 am

The Vodafone Fiji 7s side will not defend the Tokyo 7s title after losing to South Africa 7-5 in the Cup semi-final.

Neither side was able to score in the first half due to handling errors and strong defense.

Jasa Veremalua broke the deadlock in the second half with a try and Osea Kolinisau missed the conversion as Fiji took a 5-0 lead.

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Kwagga Smith brushed aside some weak tackling from Fiji to level the scores and Cecil Afrika added the extras to give South Africa the lead 7-5.

Jerry Tuwai made a break in the late stages of the break and offloaded to Veremalua, who was brought down just inches from the try line.

From the ruck, Semi Kunatani tried to barge over but was tackled heavily by South Africa captain, Kyle Brown and losing the ball in the process.

South Africa was able maintain stern defense to clinch the victory.

Fiji will now face Canada in the 3rd and 4th place playoff at 8:36pm.

South Africa will take on England in the Cup final at 9pm.