FIJI produced another trademark comeback to defeat France 21–12 in a thrilling final, signing off the Singapore leg of the HSBC SVNS in dramatic fashion.
France set the tone early, storming to a 12–0 halftime lead through tries from Jordan Sepho and Paulin Riva, and looked poised to spoil the party.
But Fiji, renowned for their flair and resilience, regrouped after the break and turned the final on its head.
With composure and attacking depth, Fiji struck back through Viwa Naduvalo, Kavekini Tanivanuakula and Pilipo Bukayaro, piling on 21 unanswered points to snatch the title in style.
Player of the final Naduvalo credited faith and teamwork for the turnaround.
“First of all, I want to thank the Lord Almighty for giving us the victory,” he said.
“Credit to the boys for their effort we worked together as a unit and came away with the win.”
The triumph marked Fiji’s first title of the season and their second consecutive crown in Singapore, a venue that continues to bring out the best in the islanders.
“I made my debut here, so it feels like playing at home,” Naduvalo added.
“Singapore is a great place to play.”
Captain Jeremaia Matana echoed those sentiments after Fiji’s third comeback win of the weekend, following earlier victories over South Africa and New Zealand.
“It’s amazing, and I want to give the glory and honour to the Man above,” an emotional Matana said.
“I’m so happy and proud of the boys. We came back strongly, and I thank them for their hard work.”
