Italy's Daniele Forcucci under pressure during the first half against Fiji
Photo: V. UTA/IRB
21 JUNE 2006
By Laurent Djian
Fijian flair triumphed over Italian brawn at Issoire as 2,500 spectators saw the South Sea Islanders overcome the Azzuri 33-12 to book a place in the play-off for ninth place on Sunday.
From the very start, the Fijians set out their stall to attack; three points from an easy penalty were turned down in favour of a tapped penalty and although the Italians were the first to score through Pratichetti after good graft from the pack, Fiji were soon in their stride.
Italy's pack was confrontational and aggressive but the Fijians matched fire with fire up front and set the crowd alight with their lightening fast backs when the opportunity arose. First flanker Ratugoleanavanua went over and then centre Lovobalavu pierced the defence for a second try. And before half time they scored a third through powerful captain Nailiko for a merited 19-7 lead.
The second half began as the first had ended and any thoughts of an Italian fight back were quashed. With Italy dominating territory and possession, Fiji counter-attacked twice at pace to build on their lead with tries from Tikoirotuma and Lovobalavu.
Italy, though, did find it within themselves to fight on. Taking the ball up well from the base of the scrum, they put the Fijians under pressure and - with Vonowale sin-binned - scored through full back Robuschi. Despite camping themselves in Fiji's half for much of the remainder, however, they failed to break through the solid white defensive wall and so Fiji proceed to contest ninth place.
Quotes
Nicola Catinna, Italy captain: We played well for 20 minutes in the first half but they used the ball well and their backs are very quick. We missed too many tackles to win the match.
Marzio Zanato, Italy coach: It's no disgrace to have lost this match. Fiji were the better team. In the second half we also used most of our substitutes to give them the experience.
Waqua Etuate, Fiji coach: We're very happy with the way we played. Our pack was outstanding and the defence was very aggressive. We're getting better with each match.
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