The Fiji Water Flying Fijians have booked their place in the Pacific Nations Cup final after defeating Canada 45-29 in an entertaining semi-final clash in Osaka, Japan.

Fiji got off to the perfect start when Kitione Salawa crossed for the opening try, with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula adding the extras. The Flying Fijians continued their attacking momentum through Frank Lomani, whose try extended Fiji’s lead before another successful conversion from Armstrong-Ravula.

Canada responded strongly through Mason Flesch, who scored his side’s first try, converted by Takoda McMullin. However, Fiji’s fly-half Armstrong-Ravula then added his own five-pointer to keep the pressure on the Canadians.

A McMullin penalty narrowed the gap before veteran prop Peni Ravai powered over for Fiji’s fourth try, with Armstrong-Ravula again converting.

Canada refused to go away, with Sion Parry finding the try line and McMullin adding the extras to keep the contest alive. At the break, Fiji held a 26-17 advantage.

The Flying Fijians came out firing in the second half as captain Tevita Ikanivere extended the lead, before Armstrong-Ravula maintained his perfect kicking form from the tee.

Motikai Murray then stole the spotlight with a brilliant double, scoring twice to put Fiji firmly in control of the match.

Canada continued to battle, with Kyle Tremblay scoring before Flesch grabbed his second try. McMullin converted Flesch’s effort, but it was not enough to overhaul Fiji’s commanding lead.

The match took a dramatic turn late when Fiji lock Isoa Nasilasila was shown a yellow card, which was later upgraded to a red card due to a high degree of danger in the tackle.

Despite finishing with 14 men, the Flying Fijians held their composure to secure a 45-29 victory and advance to the Pacific Nations Cup final.