Fiji end Wales' World Cup journey

Wales 34-38 Fiji:  Wales were sent crashing out of the World Cup by a 38-34 defeat to Fiji in an extraordinary encounter at …

Wales 34-38 Fiji: Wales were sent crashing out of the World Cup by a 38-34 defeat to Fiji in an extraordinary encounter at the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes.

Fiji had stormed into a 25-3 lead with three tries in the space of 12 first-half minutes, from Gloucester's Akapusi Qera, winger Vilimoni Delasau and lock Kele Leawere.

After Alix Popham touched down for a pushover try shortly before the interval, Wales produced a spirited comeback to edge ahead with further scores from Shane Williams, Gareth Thomas and Mark Jones.

Wales appeared to have the match won when Martyn Williams picked off a pass from Nicky Little and raced clear to score.

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But Fiji refused to be beaten and a try from Semisi Naevo four minutes from time sealed the islanders a quarter-final tie against South Africa.

Wales captain Thomas fears a backlash against his side.

He said: "Our defence wasn't up to standard. We turned over the ball in the wrong areas.

"Unfortunately, we're going home but we're going home proud Welshmen. We tried our best but we'll probably get beaten down for this."