The Vodafone Fijiana Women produced a courageous comeback to defeat the Netherlands in a thrilling WXV Global Series Challenger decider in Hong Kong, sealing victory with a late penalty after an intense 80-minute battle.

Fiji made a blistering start at the Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground, dominating possession and territory to race out to a 12-0 lead within the opening 13 minutes.

Player of the Match Merewairita Neivosa opened the scoring in the seventh minute after powering through the Dutch defence, capping a period of near-total control by the Fijians. Fullback Ivamere Nabura Rokowati added a second try six minutes later as Fiji’s dangerous backline capitalized on space in broken play.

Despite the early pressure, the Netherlands remained in the contest. A struggling lineout disrupted their game plan, but the Europeans defended resolutely and gradually worked their way back into the match.

Their persistence paid off shortly before halftime when Elisabeth Boot crossed from a rolling maul to cut Fiji’s lead. Dutch captain Linde van der Velden then struck early in the second spell to level the scores and swing momentum in her side’s favour.

As the match entered the final quarter, the Netherlands looked poised for victory when outside centre Pleuni Kievit crossed to hand her side the lead. Fiji, however, refused to back down.

With 15 minutes remaining, Selai Naliva scored a crucial try to bring the Fijiana level once again, setting up a tense finish.

The Pacific Islanders continued to apply pressure in the closing stages, and their persistence was rewarded when the Netherlands conceded a decisive penalty in the dying moments of the match.

The dramatic victory capped off Fiji’s WXV Global Series Challenger campaign on a winning note, showcasing the resilience and determination that has become a hallmark of the Vodafone Fijiana side.