Fiji moved to the top of the Pacific Nations Cup standings and fired another Rugby World Cup warning shot with a convincing win over Samoa on Saturday.
The Fijians scored all four of their tries in the opening half-hour at Apia Park to lead 30-5 at the interval before Samoa had the better of the second spell in wet conditions in a 33-19 result.
It was a fourth successive Test win for Fiji, who opened the Pacific Nations Cup with a 36-20 defeat of Tonga in Lautoka seven days earlier.
They have been touted as a potential danger side at the World Cup in France, where they are grouped with struggling traditional powers Australia and Wales.
Samoa, coming off a 24-22 upset of Japan in Sapporo, paid the price for giving the visiting Fijians too much space in the early stages.
Hooker Tevita Ikanivere, the captain of Fijian Drua in the Super Rugby Pacific domestic competition, grabbed two early tries from close range.
Iosefo Masi crossed on Test debut after being put through by seasoned midfield partner Semi Radradra.
Fiji’s best try was a sweeping 90-metre effort finished by Selestino Ravutaumada after a break by fellow winger Kalaveti Ravouvou.
Samoa’s lone first half try went to flyhalf and former Wallabies international Christian Leali’ifano.
Tumua Manu and Fritz Lee crossed for tries after half time but Caleb Muntz kept Fiji in front with the boot, netting 13 points.
The Pacific Nations Cup final round matches next weekend will see Samoa host Tonga and unbeaten Fiji travel to Japan.
© Agence France-Presse
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images/Getty Images
