The Flying Fijians have won back-to-back Pacific Nations Cups after defeating Japan in a thrilling final 33-27.

Japan came firing out of the blocks, posting 10 points before Fiji responded with a try directly from the restart through Mesake Vocevoce.

They would then go a hot run, scoring 3 more tries in the final 20 minutes of the 1st half through some breath-taking running rugby.

Tries were scored by Centre Inia Tabuavou, skipper Tevita Ikanivere and Joji Nasova.

Nasova crossed for his 2nd 2 minutes into the 2nd half. It was looking like a long night for the Brave Blossoms but they managed to work their way back into the match and push Fiji to the final whistle.

Ultimately Fiji held on with some determined defence and forcing crucial turnovers.

Coach Mick Byrne added - “It was tough today, wasn’t it? The fight we had at the end, we were down a couple of cards, things didn’t seem to be going our way out on the field – but the boys dug deep, defended well under a bit of pressure and had some composure to come back at the end and control the game.”

7 Fijians have been selected in the Pasifika XV squad to face the British and Irish Lions on Tuesday night in Melbourne.

In the front row Drua Loosehead Mesake Doge is joined by Lington Ieli of the Brumbies. Lock Mesake Vocevoce joins loose forward Seru Uru and in the backline Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Ponipate Loganimasi and a late call-up to the side Filipo Daugunu.