/ 3 October 1999

FIJI TOO GOOD FOR NAMIBIA

FIJI produced an uneven performance in Beziers on Friday but it was still way too good for World Cup newcomers Namibia as they ran out 67-18 winners in their Pool C match. The Africans, who are made up of fanatical amateurs, mostly farmers who travel hundreds of kilometres to train, had much to be proud of scoring two tries to Fiji’s nine – Fijian fly-half Waisale Serevi scoring 22 points. They even had the cheek to open the scoring against the 1987 quarter-finalists, who were booed roundly by the crowd after electing to kick a penalty in the final minute, but were given a lesson in attacking rugby for most of the match – trailing 43-6 at halftime. The Fijians displayed their traditional flowing rugby although they were fortunate to score nine tries, including a terrific brace from winger Fero Lasagavibau, as the third one by Emori Katalau was given despite him clearly dropping the ball before crossing the line.