Flying Fijians Second in Pacific Nations Cup 23 June, 2012 The Flying Fijians defeated Tonga this afternoon at Lautoka’s Churchill Park 29 -17 to claim second place in the 2012 Pacific Nations Cup.
Full back Metuisela Talebula scored two tries and wing Maikeli Mocetadra scored a try on his debut. 

It was a slow start to the game, but Fiji drew first blood in the first half after a fumble from Tonga saw wing Isimeli Koniferedi scoop up the ball and run thirty meters down the sideline before off loading it to Talebula who scored. Conversion by Fly Half Jonetani Ralulu was successful. 

Indiscipline in the Fijian side saw the Tongans earn three penalties that were easily slotted in by Kurt Morath, leading them at half time 9 – 7. 

Harsh words from their coaches at half time saw both teams come out firing, trying to break through the defence.  It was Tonga that finally made a break when a miscalculated kick by Talebula saw wing Siale Piutau score Tonga’s first and only try but it was unconverted. 

Fiji replied with three more tries, one from prop Seremaia Naureure, Mocetadra and Talebula but only two were converted. But that was enough to seal the victory for the Flying Fijians 29 -17 on home ground in front of more than 5000 spectators. 

Coach Inoke Male said that he was very proud of the boys for a hard fought physical game. “The boys played their hearts out today, better than last week. “In the first half they dropped a few balls but I told them at half time, forget about individual playing, go out there and play like a team and you will be able to win”. 

The Flying Fijians will break camp tomorrow.