Fiji 47-17 Uruguay
by Michael McCann
at Stadium MK

Fijian coach John McKee was delighted after an entertaining 47-15 win over Uruguay on Tuesday provided a consolation Pool A win.

Fiji impressively scored three tries against England, Australia and Wales before notching seven against Uruguay, who managed two themselves, their first at a Rugby World Cup since 2003.

“We came with high ambitions and believed we could roll over one or two of the bigger teams but it didn’t happen so it was important to get a good win,” says McKee.

“Credit to Uruguay, they were really tenacious, particularly in defence. It was a tough game on a wet and greasy night.

“We have got a talented squad and we have had some huge challenges, especially around the first three games.”

Fiji refused to kick any penalties, running the ball with freedom to delight a stadium-record 30,048 fans.

A side-step and dummy by Leone Nakawara for his try typified this approach, while the 27-year-old praised the influence of McKee.

“That’s how we Fijians play. We must play with flair. If we follow the structured game it’s kind of 50-50, we won’t get the result.

“He (McKee) has done amazing things for us. I’m the leader of the lineout and he told me that he doesn’t sleep because he wants our lineout to be 90 per cent (success rate) every game.”