Fiji were crowned the first men’s Olympic sevens champions after crushing Britain 43-7 in the final of the inaugural tournament in Rio.
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Overall, it’s fair to say rugby sevens has been a huge success on its Olympic debut, bringing a new audience to the sport and hopefully inspiring people around the world to pick up an oval ball. Matai, who works for the Asian Development Bank, said Serua has no television reception.
The Fijian tornado was under way right from the start with Osea Klinisau scoring less than a minute into the match, followed by Jerry Tuwai, Jasa Varemalua, Leone Nakarawa and Vatemo Ravouvou, for a 30-0 lead by halftime.
The Pacific Island nation of Fiji erupted into celebration on Friday after its rugby sevens team defeated Britain to capture the country’s first Olympic medal.
The shellshocked British failed to even get out of their own half in the opening period and when Dan Norton finally touched down for their only score it was only ever going to be a consolation. “We don’t have the money and the bucks that Britain has but we managed to beat them”.
Its hopes of having a bronze medal to show for its giantkilling exploits were crushed by South Africa, which ran out 54-14 victor in a similarly lopsided opening medal match. This was Fiji’s first ever gold medal and first ever medal in the Olympics.
Fiji sevens legend Waisale Serevi.
Speaking to the media later, Bainimarama recalled Cyclone Winston which struck Fiji in February, claiming the lives of 44 people and causing widespread devastation.
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Fiji players pose with their rugby gold medals at the Deodoro Stadium in Rio de Janeiro Thursday. “Everyone is coming together to celebrate”. Fiji prime minister Frank Bainimarama was in Rio to watch the team make history and has announced a public holiday to celebrate their achievement.
