Luke Treharne’s men had already claimed the coveted berth having already disposed of South Korea yesterday and repelling the challenge of Canada (24-10) in their opening game today before suffering a heavy defeat to Fiji (36-10) in the final pool game.
The final score-line against Wales doesn’t do justice to the effort Wales put in but the series leaders gave Treharne and his men a lesson in ball security. On the few occasions Wales looked dangerous with ball in hand, support arrived too slowly and the pilfering Fijians were quick to expose Wales and invariably scored at the other end of the field.
Savenaca Rawaca was sensational and scored two tries for Fiji but the damage was done by a rapid-fire double by Vatemo Ravouvou which took Fiji out to 17-0. Wales struck back before halftime through Kristian Phillips but Fiji were ruthless in the second half and scored three further tries before Luke Morgan ploughed over to stop the one way traffic with the final move of the match.
Although disappointed to lose the final pool match against Fiji, Wales head coach Gareth Williams was encouraged by his team’s continuing progress.
“In relation to the Canada match the boys were delighted with the win – the players applied themselves brilliantly in preparing for this group.
“It was a very controlled and composed performance with a good level of control. We forced a few of our offloads, but there was an excellent intent to play.
“The boys regathered and had to quickly recover for the Fiji match who we all know are an excellent unit. Disappointing to lose to Fiji but they are a quality outfit – we’ll now focus ahead to tomorrow where we face New Zealand which will provide our young group another opportunity to test themselves against the very best of opposition.
“The boys are in great spirits, working extremely hard, and are focussed on improving each phase, each game, and each tournament we are involved in.”
Hong Kong Sevens – Day 2 results
Wales 24 Canada 10
Wales scorers: Tries: Luke Treharne (2), Jordan Williams, Sam Cross; Cons – Williams (2)
Wales 10 Fiji 36
Wales scorers: Tries: Kristian Phillips, Luke Morgan
