Beyond the scoreboard at Sunday’s rugby match between the Fiji Water Flying Fijians and the Wallabies, more than 28,000 spectators came together to celebrate the deep bonds between the two Pacific countries.
The match, which showcased a spectacular display of sportsmanship, camaraderie and the Vuvale spirit, brought together Fijians from across Australia and even from Fiji.
The Wallabies narrowly defeated the Flying Fijians 21–18 at the dying minutes of the match.
Fiji’s Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, and Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese watched the match side by side.
At the conclusion of the match, together, they later presented the Vuvale Bowl to the victorious Wallabies.
In so doing, the two Prime Ministers, once again, reinforced the shared values and strategic partnership between the two countries.
Prime Minister Rabuka reiterated the important values of the renewed and elevated Vuvale Partnership, adding that today’s rugby match was a powerful reflection of that spirit, both on and off the field.
As Prime Minister Albanese stated, “the Vuvale Bowl match between the Wallabies and the Flying Fijians shows the scope and depth of the friendship between Fiji and Australia.”
“Australia looks forward to continuing working with Fiji towards a secure and prosperous Pacific region,” he added.
Congratulations to the Wallabies on winning today’s match, better luck next time Fiji.
Despite conceding a last-minute defeat to the Wallabies, Flying Fijians captain Tevita Ikanivere praised his team’s effort in Sunday’s test match.
Assembling just a week prior, he commended his players for their relentless work ethic and for pushing Australia all the way.
Although Fiji stumbled early, allowing the Wallabies to notch two first-half tries to their one, they rallied impressively, even taking the lead at one point. Unfortunately, they couldn’t hold firm when it mattered most.
“First of all, just want to thank the Lord for giving us the strength to come out here today. Very proud of my brother’s, came in one week, prepared and put the efforts out there today. I know it’s a disappointing loss losing in the last minute, but I’m thankful to them giving their all today.”
Fiji’s points came from two tries by flanker Lekima Tagitagivalu and fullback Salesi Rayasi, with fly-half Caleb Muntz adding two successful penalty kicks.
Looking ahead, the Flying Fijians face Scotland this Saturday at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva at 3 pm.
