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Samoa comprehensively outplayed Fiji to win gold at the Pacific Mini Games in Cook Islands. It’s proved been a momentous week for the Samoans, with their home island deeply affected by the giant tsunami that has caused havoc in the region.

Mikaeele Pesamino’s superb hat trick proved the difference in the final, ably supported by the likes of long-term Sevens servants Uale Mae and Lolo Lui, eventually winning 38-12.

"It is a great achievement, given what has happened in the last few days in Samoa," said Samoan Sevens coach, Stephen Betham.

"I think the boys were full of passion today for their family and friends back home, who have been devastated by the tsunami."

Fiji, World Games gold medallists in July, will be disappointed with their performance in the final, with their major weakness their inability to secure possession, leaving them 26-0 down at half-time.

"Credit to Samoa, they had a dream start. The ball bounced their way. It is a learning experience for us. We have to go back and refocus on what we want to achieve,” said Fijian coach Iliesa Tanivula.

"The better team won today. Congratulations to Samoa. They came in prepared from the start. They took the opportunities and scored the tries.”

Tonga took the Bronze medal with their 38-12 win over Niue, whilst the Cook Islands can take some solace from their win over PNG 17-12 to grab fifth.

The Solomon Islands finished seventh, while New Caledonia took the Bowl and ninth place.

Fiji and Samoa went undefeated throughout the two days and both underlined their class in their respective semi finals. Samoa’s 38-0 win over Nieu emphasised their clinical nature with ball in hand, whilst Fiji grafted it out against a tough Tongan outfit going through 26-7.

The gold medal match marked the end of the VII Pacific Mini Games with the Rugby Sevens players particularly now awaiting the IOC's vote on Friday 9 October, to determine whether or not Sevens will be included in the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio.

“It would show the world what an exciting and fast game it is, and the atmosphere that is at Wellington Sevens and Hong Kong Sevens would be at the Olympics," said Samoan star Lolo Lui

"This is a great achievement for us and we dedicate our win to the people of Samoa, our friends and family back home."

 
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