Ireland beat Fiji to set up decisive group games in Nations Championship

Ireland secured their place in the final round of the Nations Championship group stage with a convincing 43-15 win over Fiji in Dublin on Saturday. This victory marked Ireland’s 10th win against Fiji in 10 matches, tying them with England on 20 points, one point behind the group leaders, France. In the upcoming week, France will face Argentina, England will host New Zealand, and Ireland will play against four-time world champions South Africa.

Currently, the All Blacks lead the Southern Hemisphere group after a shock loss to Wales, holding a one-point lead over South Africa, who lost 21-19 to France earlier this week. The final round of group matches next weekend will determine the rankings leading up to the November 27-30 finals in London. Ireland No. 8 Nick Timoney stated, “We figured out the stuff we needed to do to get to a good place.”

Timoney added, “One to 15 across the park, tough. It’s good practice heading into next week.” Ireland opened the scoring when winger Tommy O’Brien scored a try after eight minutes. Fijian center Josua Tuisova scored the first try for Fiji, but Ireland responded with a Rob Baloucoune double. Ronan Kelleher scored the fourth try for Ireland, securing a bonus point, and Andrew Porter added another try after a yellow card for Inoke Ravuiwasa.

O’Brien scored his second try, and Timoney sealed the victory with his final try, ensuring Fiji’s continued lack of success in the inaugural competition.