Fiji edge out Italy with 22-19 win in Suva

Fiji 22-19 Italy, Suva
Scorecard

Ben Volavola kicked the decisive drop goal in the final minute as Fiji managed to edge out Italy with a 22-19 win in Suva on Saturday.

Eroni Vasiteri got Fiji off the mark with a fifth minute try while Volavola's conversion helped them claim a seven point lead. Italy bounced back through a double penalty from fly-half Tommaso Allan but Jale Vatubua's crossed over for the hosts in the 18th minute to increase Fiji's lead to eight points.

Allan's third penalty that came in the 29th minute ensured Italy's trail were reduced to five points at half time.

Winger Vereniki Goneva's try early in the second half increased Fiji's lead to 10 points but a yellow card to Timoci Nagusa in the 54th minute changed the complexion of the game. Maxime Mbanda capitalised on the advantage of having an extra man as he strolled past the post two minutes later while Allan's conversion and penalty meant the scores were levelled 19-19 heading into the final five minutes.

This is when Volavola kicked the crucial drop goal in the 80th minute to seal a thrilling three point victory for Fiji.