JESS SKINNER believes Fiji gave Australia the test they needed – with their place in the World Cup final against New Zealand booked with a 30-14 victory in a tough clash in Sydney.
Abbi Church crossed for four tries at the Allianz Stadium, with Tamika Upton and Jaime Chapman also on the scoresheet for the Jillaroos.
Unlike previous outings, it wasn’t a straightforward task, with Fiji taking the lead in the first half through a try and penalty from Luisa Yaranamua, while Maria Paseka found a way over after the break.
Discussing what it means to reach the final, Skinner said: “It feels good. Rugby League World Cups don’t come around too often, so to get to the big game, I’m really proud of the girls. We’re excited to move on to the Kiwis.
“We did a preview on Fiji, and we knew they started hard and fast – coming quick, playing this really exciting football that really challenged us.
“We knew it was coming, and it was exactly what we anticipated. It’s more pleasing to see what they’re made of in those moments. As a coach I’m really proud of them.
“We’ve been working really hard on and off the field to be in this position. Fiji were outstanding, so to get the win in that type of game gives us a lot of learnings and a lot to be proud about.”
Fiji head coach Jone Wesele was left proud of his side’s efforts, and was in awe of their spirit throughout the meeting with the reigning champions.
“They were amazing, it was effort after effort after giving away penalties – they still managed to pick themselves up,” he said.
“The scoreline reflects their persistence and how they kept pushing to the last whistle.”
