The SportsWorld Fiji Under-20 side secured an impressive 30-10 win over hosts Georgia in the 11th-place playoff at the Junior World Championship, ending their campaign on a winning note.

Fiji made a strong start, with Sevuloni Satala crossing for the opening try of the match. Although the conversion was unsuccessful, the baby Flying Fijians continued to apply pressure and were rewarded when Marika Koroi scored Fiji’s second try, with the conversion added to extend the lead.

The momentum remained with Fiji as skipper Isoa Koroinawai powered over for another try before halftime, helping his side establish a comfortable advantage.

Despite being reduced to 14 men after Faimalaga Tuvalu was shown a yellow card, Fiji’s defense stood firm. A crucial moment came when Ratu Apenisa Naevo produced a remarkable try-saving tackle to deny Georgia and preserve Fiji’s lead.

Georgia eventually got on the scoreboard through Mikheili Shioshvili while Fiji were still a man down. However, Fiji responded through the boot of Tevita Vuniwaqa Ledua, who slotted two penalty goals to keep the hosts at bay.

Fiji faced another setback when Maleli Nauvasi received a yellow card in the second half, but the young side continued to show resilience. Georgia narrowed the gap through a second try to Leonide Saldadze with 10 minutes remaining, threatening a late comeback.

Any hopes of a Georgian fightback were ended when Fiji, despite being down to 14 players, struck the decisive blow. Savenaca Durusolo crossed for Fiji’s fourth try before Ledua added the conversion to seal a convincing 30-10 victory.

The result sees Fiji conclude their Junior World Championship campaign in 11th place, showcasing determination and character to finish the tournament on a positive note against the host nation.