Making their international debut, the Fijian women’s side have proven too strong for the Papua New Guinea Kumuls.
Known as the Fiji Bulikula, the side is name after a golden cowrie shell, and they got their international tenure off to a perfect start.
It was not a good start for the Kumuls who, after some confusion on the kick-off, made an early error.
Fiji were quick to pounce and a yawning overlap on the right saw Roela Radiniyavuni score an easy try to make the score 4-0.
Conversions from the sideline can be tough but Patricia Raikadroka made it look easy; her kick clearing the posts and then some.
Despite the best efforts of Papua New Guinea just minutes later, Jacobetha Wake was taken into a touch after a strong Fijian hit in defence.
Their tough-nut-to-crack defence paid dividends, as a second Fiji try soon came about.
Asipau Mafi was the provider, as she sent Asena Rokomarama over for a try on the right side.
A third try followed soon after the break, as Ateca Laiyamo muscled her way over from close range.
The Papua New Guinea ladies found a second wind and looked to assert some dominance but it was not to be.
Their hopes were dampened when Mafi scored a try of her own.
To cap the game off and to cap off a solid individual performance, Radiniyavuni nabbed a second.
With Fiji showcasing their strong skills, they could be a darkhorse at the Women’s World Cup.
NRL News Player of the Game
3. Asipau Mafi
2. Roela Radiniyavuni
- Ateca Laiyamo