The Fiji women's sevens team produced a strong finish to win the Challenge Trophy at the latest round of the World Series in Kitakyushu, Japan.
Fiji players celebrate the Challenge Trophy Final win over Spain. Photo: Mike Lee - KLC fotos for World Rugby
After losing all three pool matches on day one against Ireland, USA and England, the Fijiana bounced back to defeat hosts Japan 28-17 before crushing Spain 41-12 in the playoff for ninth place.
It's Fiji second consecutive ninth place finish under new head coach Saiasi Fuli, who was appointed in December.
Fiji remain in 10th place in the overall World Series standings after four of six legs, three points behind the Spaniards but a whopping 21 points adrift of the top eight.
Fiji's Asinate Savu fends off the Spanish defence. Photo: Mike Lee - KLC fotos for World Rugby
The top four countries at the end of the season will earn automatic qualification for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
The top ranked teams at November's Oceania Women's Sevens Championships in Suva yet to qualify for Tokyo will also secure their spot in Japan, with equivalent competitions being held in Asia, Africa, Europe, South and North America.
The final opportunity for Olympic qualification will be at the World Rugby Olympic Repechage tournament in the first half of 2020, which will feature 12 women's and 12 men's teams.
Fiji's first win in Kitakyushu was against hosts Japan. Photo: Mike Lee - KLC fotos for World Rugby
Canada defeated England in the Japan Sevens final, becoming the first team outside of New Zealand and Australia to win a World Series tournament since their triumph in Sydney in February 2017.
The Women's World Sevens Series resumes in Langford, Canada next month.
