Late Try Seals Narrow Victory as Title Race Heats Up

In a tightly contested encounter, New Zealand 7s edged past Fiji Men’s 7s 24–21, with the match decided in the final moments thanks to a late try. Both teams showcased strong defensive and attacking efforts, but composure under pressure allowed New Zealand to claim the crucial win. The result keeps the hosts in the title race while Fiji Men’s 7s must reflect on missed opportunities in a contest that remained evenly balanced throughout.

Early Exchanges Reflect the Stakes

The opening phases reflected the importance of the occasion, with both New Zealand 7s and Fiji Men’s 7s committing heavily at the breakdown and testing defensive structures. Early territory was traded as neither side established clear control.

Physicality dominated the early exchanges, forcing disciplined defensive sets and limiting clear scoring opportunities for both teams.

Momentum Shifts Through Sustained Pressure

As the match developed, sustained attacking phases began to stretch defensive lines. Pressure built on both sides, but execution errors prevented either team from gaining a decisive advantage.

The contest remained end-to-end, with momentum swinging as fatigue started to influence decision-making late in the game.

Late Try Decides the Outcome

In the closing minutes, sustained pressure inside Fiji’s 22 finally paid off. A late try broke the deadlock and proved decisive in a match settled by fine margins.

Strong game management in the final moments ensured New Zealand maintained their narrow 24–21 lead until the final whistle.

Result Shapes the Title Race

The victory keeps New Zealand 7s firmly in contention for the Dubai Sevens title, while Fiji Men’s 7s were left to reflect on missed opportunities in a match they remained competitive throughout.

With the season entering a critical phase, results like this underline the importance of composure and execution in decisive moments.