Fiji bemoan role of clubs

England 54 Fiji 12

The build-up to the opening match of Fiji’s tour had been overshadowed by allegations European clubs were, contrary to IRB regulations, refusing to release players to the tour party.

The Fijian Rugby Union lodged a formal complaint with their French counterparts after Racing-Metro lock Jone Qovu withdrew from their squad. Qovu initially claimed he was injured but then played for Racing against Perpignan on October 27.

The French Rugby Federation responded by banning Qovu from playing for Racing until December 4, covering Fiji’s tour, which sees them play English Premiership side Gloucester tomorrow before meeting Ireland A this weekend.

“Some of them [players] weren’t released by clubs and some were not available until the last minute, about four players,” Male said.

“Had they been available we would have given England a game.”

Scorers for England: Tries: Sharples (2), Penalty, Monye, Johnson, Tuilagi (two). Cons: Flood (4), Farrell. Pens: Flood (3).

Scorers for Fiji: Tries: Matawalu, Kalou Qaraniqio. Con: Matavesi.

Ref: G Jackson (New Zealand).