Spain celebrate sudden-death win
11TH PLACE PLA
Spain ………….. 24 Fiji ………………… 19
AN incredible week for Spanish sport continued as they retained their place in the World Championship at the expense of Fiji. Carlos Alcaraz's win at Wimbledon and Spain winning the Euros was followed by a decisive try by David Gallego in the second period of sudden-death extra-time to keep the newcomers place in the showpiece age-grade tournament. The 2023 Trophy winners came back 14-0 down to ensure Fiji – twice down to 13 players – will play in the Trophy next year.
Fiji breaking the deadlock through flanker Ratu Nemani Kurucake and their second came five minutes later through Iowane Vakadrigi.
Diego Gonzalez Blanco crashed over following a strong Spanish maul just before halftime to reduce the deficit.
Fiji back row Ronald Sharma scored out wide but Spain countered from the restart, with a try for Jokin Zolezzi. Gonzalo Otamendi levelled the scores moments later, after flanker Nicolas Moleti crashed over nine minutes from time.
Despite Spain's best efforts, that was the last score of normal time, as the game went to an all-in, nerve-shredding sudden death before Gallego's maul winner.
