Fiji caused an upset as they toppled New Zealand in the opening leg of the HSBC Sevens World Series in Australia.
New Zealand fall at the final hurdle
Fiji caused an upset as they toppled New Zealand in the opening leg of the HSBC Sevens World Series in Australia.
New Zealand had been favourites to secure the inaugural Gold Coast title as they looked in irresistible form earlier in the tournament - including in their comprehensive win over Fiji in the pool.
However Fiji saved their best performance for the showpiece as they secured a 26-12 victory over the defending series champions.
Setefano Cakau got the Fijians off to a flying start but New Zealand hit back twice in quick succession through the leading points scorer Tomasi Cama.
Fiji responded through Joeli Lutumailagi to level the scores before Emosi Vucago saw the Pacific Islanders back in front.
Watisoni Votu then put the game beyond doubt when he powered over with two minutes left.
Having topped their pool ahead of the Fijians on day one, New Zealand had brushed aside England (24-14) and Australia (24-7) en route to the final.
Setback
Fiji bounced back from an early setback to power past Wales 33-5 before toppling South Africa in the semi-final.
South Africa, who beat France in their last-eight encounter, overcame Australia, 14-12 quarter-final winners over Samoa, 17-5 in the first-ever third-placed play-off.
It was a disappointing day for England, who had arrived on the Gold Coast full of confidence after a promising build up.
They crashed out of the Plate competition 17-14 to Samoa despite two tries from Matt Turner.
Wales, though, saw off France in their Plate semi-final before a brilliant display saw them beat Samoa 26-15 to win the title.
Scotland suffered disappointment as they were edged out 17-14 in the final of the Bowl competition, having earlier beaten Niue and the USA.
Former Wales international Shane Howarth guided Papua New Guinea to success in the Shield final as they beat Japan 31-19.
