Wales secured a rare away victory in the Nations Championship, defeating Fiji 39-24 in Suva. The visitors scored six tries to Fiji's three, with flanker Jac Morgan crossing twice in the first half from lineout drives. Despite being outplayed in open play for long periods, Wales's set-piece dominance proved decisive.
First half: Fiji's flair meets Welsh resilience
Fiji started at breathtaking pace, scoring after just two minutes through Pita Gus Sowakula, who finished a move featuring Salesi Rayasi and Josua Tuisova. Fiji made 12 clean breaks in the first half to Wales's zero, yet the score was tied 10-10 at halftime. Wales's tries came from two rolling mauls, with Morgan touching down at the back. Fiji had a try disallowed when Selestino Ravutaumada dropped the ball before scoring, and Tevita Ikanivere was also held up.
“I’m really proud of the boys,” said Wales head coach Steve Tandy. “It wasn’t always perfect. What Fiji produced on the field is magical, but the way our boys kept going, some of the goalline stuff, was outstanding. The set piece was excellent.” Wales's scrum won a penalty almost every time, and they kicked two penalties to the corner for Morgan's tries.
Second half: Wales pull clear
Wales scored early in the second half through Rhys Carré, then Josh Adams pounced on a loose ball for a bonus-point try. Fiji replied with a driven lineout try from Elia Canakaivata and a Ravutaumada score, cutting the gap to one point. But Wales responded with a third lineout drive try from Ryan Elias and a final score by Eddie James from another scrum penalty. Dan Edwards added a penalty, and Wales held on for a 39-24 win.
“We definitely will be better,” said Fiji captain Tevita Ikanivere. “Once we find that balance, we’re going to be a very dangerous team.” The match was played in front of 16,456 fans.
Match details and key statistics
Wales scored six tries to Fiji's three, with Morgan (2), Carré, Adams, Elias, and James crossing. Fiji's tries came from Sowakula, Canakaivata, and Ravutaumada. Wales's scrum was dominant, earning multiple penalties, while Fiji made 12 clean breaks in the first half but could not convert them into points.
Wales now travel to Argentina for their next match, while Fiji host England in Liverpool on Saturday. The win gives Wales back-to-back Test victories after a long losing streak.
