Rugby

Ireland secure historic win over Fiji to reach quarters at Singapore Sevens

Conroy and Kennedy scores seal historic first men’s sevens victory over Pacific nation

Ireland players celebrate at the final whistle after beating Fiji. Photograph: Martin Seras Lima/Getty Images

Sat Apr 9 2022 - 13:27

The Ireland men’s sevens team has pulled off a historic 21-12 victory over Fiji, the first time in their history they have beaten the 2016 Olympic gold medallists. The result helped Ireland qualify for the cup quarter-finals at the Singapore Sevens.

Wing Jordan Conroy notched a double either side of half-time but Fiji kept things close through scores from Vuiviawa Naduvalo and Joseva Talacolo. A missed conversion meant that Ireland were leading by two heading into the closing stages.

The famous win was sealed during the last play of the game as Terry Kennedy stepped through the Fiji defence on his own 10m line, speeding past the cover for a scintillating solo effort.

Ireland later went on to swat aside Japan 38-7 but lost their perfect record in a defeat to France. Fiji also beat Japan and recovered to see off France, meaning they took top spot in Pool D on points difference.

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Ireland take on the USA at 6.34 on Sunday morning Irish time for a place in the semi-finals.