In a nail-biting finish before a record crowd of 28,132 at Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium, the Wallabies snatched a 21–18 victory over the Fiji Water Flying Fijians — but the result was just one part of the story.
The fiercely contested Vuvale Bowl match became a showcase of Pacific pride, sportsmanship, and enduring friendship between Fiji and Australia.
With Fiji leading 18–14 and just minutes on the clock, Wallabies captain Harry Wilson spun through defenders to score the match-winning try, breaking Fijian hearts and igniting Australian hopes ahead of their much-anticipated Test series against the British & Irish Lions.
Australia had raced to an early 14–0 lead, but the Flying Fijians mounted a sensational comeback, scoring 18 unanswered points to put themselves within reach of a historic back-to-back win over the Wallabies. Winger Jiuta Wainiqolo’s dazzling run and offload to Lekima Tagitagivalu was one of several thrilling moments that put Fiji ahead.
Despite the loss, the Fijians won over the crowd with their flair, physicality, and unrelenting spirit, bringing echoes of their unforgettable 2023 World Cup performance. Fiji’s coach, Mick Byrne, said,
“I feel for the players… it is a gut punch.”
Prime Ministers Sitiveni Rabuka and Anthony Albanese watched the match together and jointly presented the newly named Vuvale Bowl to the victorious Wallabies. The moment was more than ceremonial — it was a powerful reaffirmation of the deepening “Vuvale” (family) partnership between the two nations.
“This match was a powerful reflection of that spirit, both on and off the field,” said Prime Minister Rabuka. PM Albanese added,
“The Vuvale Bowl match between the Wallabies and the Flying Fijians shows the scope and depth of the friendship between Fiji and Australia.”
The match also reignited calls for a Test to be played in Suva, with Byrne publicly backing a home-and-away series in future years.
Australia’s try-scorers were Dave Porecki, Fraser McReight, and Harry Wilson, with Noah Lolesio and Ben Donaldson adding conversions. Fiji responded through tries from Salesi Rayasi and Tagitagivalu, with Caleb Muntz adding two penalties and a conversion.
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