The Fiji Warriors thrashed the Upolu Samoa 19-7 at Apia Park on Saturday May 30 to become the champion of the 2009 IRB Pacific Rugby Cup.

It was the first time for a Fijian team to win the IRB Pacific Rugby Cup since its inauguration in 2006. Upolu Samoa won the Pacific Rugby cup in 2007, and the Tonga Tautahi Gold last year.

The IRB website reported that Warriors Head Coach Ifereimi Tawake was elated with his team's performance. "The boys played with their heart and our defence won the game and I am very proud of the boys."

He added that the win was important for their RWC 2011 preparations.

"These players are the future, this is great for Fiji rugby. I told them we were leaving our shores to win the IRB Pacific Rugby Cup and we did."

FIJI WARRIORS

1. Alefoso Yalayalatabua (captain)

2. Viliame Veikoso

3. Viliame Seuseu

4. Apisalome Ratuniyarawa

5. Ben Sadrugu

6. Leone Nakarawa

7. Samu Bola

8. Koresi Ledua

9. Aporosa Vata

10. Alipate Tani

11. Apisalome Waqatabu

12. Ravai Fatiaki

13. Ropate Ratu

14. William Saukuru

15. Iliesa Keresoni

UPOLU SAMOA

1. James Johnston

2. Loleni Tafunai

3. Roysiu Tolufale

4. Tim Nelson

5. Finauga Segi

6. Misioka Timoteo

7. Ofisa Treviranus

8. George Stowers (captain)

9. Paul Tuala Chang Teng

10. Ki Anufe

11. Esera Lauina

12. Jerry Meafou

13. Anitele'a Tuilagi

14. Taulagi Afamasanga

15. Titi Jnr. Esau.