Vodafone Fijiana Fall Just Short Against USA in Hard-Fought Test Match
The Vodafone Fijiana XV delivered a courageous and disciplined performance against the ninth-ranked United States in Washington D.C. on Saturday, narrowly falling short with a final score of 31–24 in what was a historic test match for the team.
Despite trailing 14–0 within the opening 10 minutes, Fijiana showed immense character to fight back and keep the match within reach. With relentless pressure and territory dominance in the second half, the team came close to recording a major upset.
“I am very proud of the team’s performance to stay in the fight after a tough start,” said Fijiana Head Coach Ioan Cunningham.
“We showed our grit and composure to get back into the match and put ourselves into a position to win it.”
Strong Start from the Hosts, Brighter Finish from Fiji
USA capitalised on early momentum to score two quick tries, but the Fijiana responded with sharp attacking phases that eventually saw Captain Alfreda Fisher cross over for the first of her two tries. Josifini Neihamu also dotted down, with Litiana Vueti adding three conversions and a penalty goal.
The second half saw the Fijiana camped in the USA’s 22m for long periods, but handling errors and missed opportunities kept them from converting pressure into points.
“That’s an area we need to improve if we want to compete consistently with the best sides in the world,” added Cunningham.
“We need to be more clinical when those chances come.”
Tactical Focus and Defensive Challenges
Cunningham acknowledged the team’s work ethic and discipline, noting that defensive structure remains a work in progress.
“We work hard for each other, which is excellent, but we need to be smarter under pressure. Our tackling needs more physicality — we allowed USA too many meters on the carry.”
Fiji’s penalty count remained low, a sign of improved discipline, but the focus heading into the next phase of preparation will be on ball carry and breakdown execution, especially in the attacking zone.
Standout Performers & Squad Development
Several players stood out in the test match, including:
- Alfreda Fisher – led by example and scored two tries.
- Ilisapeci Delaiwau, Litiana Vueti, and Salanieta Kinita – each delivered key contributions across both attack and defence.
“We’re creating a culture where players can be themselves and contribute toward the team. This environment is helping the squad come together quickly,” Coach Cunnigham said.
The team has seen consistent development over the past six weeks, and Cunningham emphasized the importance of this performance in the bigger picture.
“This result is massive for the growth of women’s rugby in Fiji. The team wants to inspire people back home every time they take the field — and I believe they did just that.”
Looking Toward the Future
With the Rugby World Cup drawing closer, the coaching team will use this match as a benchmark for progress and preparation.
Key Takeaways:
- Improve efficiency in the red zone
- Start stronger in the first 15 minutes
- Maintain defensive structure under pressure
“We’re seeing green shoots of growth, and I’m very pleased with the direction we’re heading. We still have a long way to go, but this performance showed we’re on the right path.”
Coach’s Message to Fiji Fans
Cunningham concluded with a heartfelt message to supporters back home:
“The support means so much to the team — it gives everyone a boost when we take the field. Please continue to back these inspirational women as they represent Fiji with pride and heart.”
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Match Summary
USA 31 FIJI 24
Saturday, 19 July 2025
Audi Field, Washington D.C., USA
Referee: Sara Cox (England)
Half-time: 26-14
USA (1-15): Hope Rogers, Kathryn Treder, Keia Mae Sagapolu, Hallie Taufoou, Erica Jarrell-Searcy, Tahlia Brody, Kate Zackary (captain), Rachel Johnson, Olivia Ortiz, Mckenzie Hawkins, Erica Coulibaly, Alev Kelter, Ilona Maher, Emily Henrich, Bulou Mataitoga
Reserves: Paige Stathopoulos, Alivia Leatherman, Catherine Benson, Rachel Ehrecke, George Perris-Redding, Cassidy Bargell, Kritin Bitter, Sariah Ibarra
Tries: Coulibaly, Rogers, Jarrell-Searcy, Johnson, Henrich
Conversions: Hawkins (3)
FIJI (1-15): Loraini Senivutu, Bitila Tawake, Tiana Robanakadavu, Jade Coates, Mereoni Nakesa, Nunia Duanimoala, Alfreda Fisher (captain), Karalaini Naisewa, Setaita Railumu, Salanieta Kinita, Alowesi Nakoci, Josifini Neihamu, Verenaisi Ditavutu, Ilisapeci Delaiwau, Litiana Vueti
Reserves: Selai Naliva, Keleni Marawa, Wainikiti Vasuturaga, Carletta Yee, Adi Salaseini Railumu, Kolora Lomani, Kelerayani Luvu, Michella’e Stolz
Tries: Alfreda Fisher (2), Josifini Neihamu
Conversions: Litiana Vueti (3)
Penalty Goal: Vueti