Fiji resisted a second-half comeback from the USA Eagles to run out 20-14 winners in Vannes, France, on Friday.
The Islanders held a 15-0 lead at the break thanks to tries from fullback Timoci Nagusa and wing Watisoni Votu, but the Americans clawed their way back into the match after Fiji were reduced to 14 men. Seamus Kelly and Taku Ngwenya scored either side of a second try from Votu, who would spend 10 minutes in the bin after receiving a yellow card in the 67th minute.
Despite a strong late rally, the Americans were unable to get across the line for a try that would've set up a memorable victory.
Fiji – Tries: Timoci Nagusa, Watisoni Votu (2). Conversion: Nemani Nadolo. Penalty: Nadolo.
USA – Tries: Seamus Kelly, Taku Ngwenya. Conversions: Ronald McLean (2).
Fiji – 15 Timoci Nagusa, 14 Watisoni Votu, 13 Vereniki Goneva, 12 Nemani Nadolo, 11 Asaeli Tikoirotuma, 10 Josh Matavesi, 9 Henry Seniloli, 8 Masi Matadigo, 7 Malakai Ravulo, 6 Akapusi Qera (c), 5 Tevita Cavubati, 4 Leone Nakarawa, 3 Manasa Saulo, 2 Tuapati Talemaitoga, 1 Peni Ravai.
Subs: 16 Sunia Koto, 17 Isei Colatei, 18 Tanielo Koroi, 19 Nemia Soqeta, 20 Dominiko Waqaniburotu, 21 Nemia Kenatale, 22 Jonetani Ralulu, 23 Waisea Nayacalevu.
USA – 15 Ronald McLean, 14 Taku Ngwenya, 13 Seamus Kelly, 12 Thretton Palamo, 11 Tim Stanfill, 10 Shalom Suniula, 9 Mike Petri, 8 Todd Clever, 7 John Quill, 6 Scott LaValla, 5 Greg Peterson, 4 John Cullen, 3 Mate Moeakiola, 2 Phil Thiel, 1 Olive Kilifi.
Subs: 16 Tom Coolican, 17 Nick Wallace, 18 Benjamin Tarr, 19 Matt Trouville, 20 Kyle Sumsion, 21 Roland Suniula, 22 Andrew Suniula, 23 Tim Maupin.
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
