The Fiji Water Flying Fijians produced an enterprising attacking performance but were unable to convert their dominance into victory, falling 39-24 to Wales in an entertaining international Test at Principality Stadium on Saturday.

Locked at 10-10 at half-time, Fiji showed glimpses of the exciting brand of rugby that has become its trademark, controlling possession, territory and several key attacking statistics.

However, Wales proved clinical when opportunities presented themselves, scoring six tries to secure the win.
The Flying Fijians made the perfect start when number eight Pita-Gus Sowakula crossed in just the second minute, with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula adding the conversion for an early 7-0 advantage.

Wales responded through flanker Jac Morgan, who crossed twice in the opening half, although both conversion attempts were unsuccessful. Armstrong-Ravula’s penalty goal ensured the teams went into the break level at 10-10.

Wales came out strongly after halftime, scoring two quick tries through Rhys Carre and Josh Adams to establish a 22-10 lead. Fiji refused to go away, with Elia Canakaivata crashing over before Selestino Ravutaumada finished a sweeping attacking movement just minutes later.

Armstrong-Ravula converted both tries to reduce the deficit to just three points at 25-22.

Despite Fiji’s resurgence, Wales maintained composure in the closing stages, adding further tries through Ryan Elias and Eddie James, while a penalty goal helped seal a 39-24 victory.

Although the scoreboard favoured Wales, the statistics painted a different picture of Fiji’s attacking dominance.
The Flying Fijians enjoyed 59 per cent possession and 56 per cent territory, carrying the ball 167 times compared to Wales’ 83 carries. Fiji gained an impressive 667 metres with ball in hand—more than double Wales’ 261 metres—while completing 182 passes and producing 32 offloads, highlighting their intent to keep the ball alive.

The host union also recorded 23 clean breaks and beat 42 defenders, compared with Wales’ four clean breaks and 14 defenders beaten, demonstrating Fiji’s ability to consistently challenge the Welsh defensive line.

However, Wales were more efficient in converting opportunities into points, finishing with six tries to Fiji’s three despite enjoying significantly less possession and territory.

Following the match, Head Coach Senirusi Seruvakula said discipline and unforced errors ultimately proved costly.

“We started well, but we gave away some silly mistakes and penalties, and that cost us the game.”
Seruvakula admitted Fiji were unable to capitalize on several promising attacking opportunities after their fast start.

“We felt we could build from that first try, but unfortunately we couldn’t finish some of the opportunities we created.”

The Flying Fijians also suffered an injury setback, with Seruvakula confirming that two players are expected to be sidelined for approximately six weeks. Despite the losses, he remains confident in the depth of the squad.

“There will be no excuses. That’s why we selected a squad of 32 players. Injuries create opportunities for others to step up. We have another big game next week, and our focus now shifts to preparing for that.”

The Flying Fijians now turn their attention to their second match of the Nations Championships; as they look to build on an encouraging attacking performance and improve.