Brave Blossoms scoop PNC title! - The Fiji Times

Japan’s Brave Blossoms broke Fijian hearts, ending our Pacific Nations Cup reign with a hard-earned win in Tokyo.

The passionate, dedicated and courageous Japanese took out the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup title, beating the defending champions 20-15.

The Brave Blossoms, who had lost to the Flying Fijians in the last two deciders, were determined to end their losing run in front of a huge crowd at the Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium.

Last year, the Flying Fijians won their seventh PNC title after beating Japan 33-27 at America First Field in Salt Lake City, Utah.

In 2024, Fiji thrashed Japan 41-17 in their own back yard at the Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Higashi-Osaka, Osaka Prefecture.

That loss hurt the hosts and this time around the hosts wanted to celebrate with the PNC title.

Our boys gave away eight penalties in the first half which Japan utilised. The hosts looked confident, dictated play, controlled the tempo and utilised set-piece play.

The Flying Fijians made silly, uncharacteristic errors. We kicked away valuable possession when we should have used it to set the momentum to attack the opposition try-line. Mesake Doge’s departure was a blow. The Flying Fijians have a mammoth task ahead.

They face the Les Bleus (France), Ireland and then Italy. Head coach Senirusi Seruvakula, who is under the radar, needs to turn things around.

It’s a pity that since his appointment, this year Fiji only managed to beat Canada (45-29). We lost 39-24 to the Welsh Dragons, 73-8 to England’s Roses and 33-17 to Scotland’s Bravehearts.

The Fiji Rugby Union must take a stand before things get worse. Our performances shocked fans. I hope things improve.