First all the hype, then the drabness, and finally some drama and partial redemption for this match. But it was far from vintage Pacific Island rugby.
For almost 60 minutes it seemed we'd witness an extreme rarity – neither Fiji nor Samoa scoring a try – and there was little show of the traditional flair, the sleight of hand, the blistering pace or the bone-shuddering hits.
Rather, it was bad handling, kicks instead of passing and a complete lack of spark that had the crowd resorting to Mexican Waves after only 26 minutes.
But then the sun came out and the match lit up, to give the vocal 60,327 crowd something to remember this encounter for.
Samoa's Paul Williams was sensational while Netani Talei and Gaby Lovobalavu tried to smash and bash their way through everything to salvage something for Fiji. Alas, too little too late.
The pre-match hype fell well short of the reality, but at least the result keeps Pool D extremely honest. Barring a massive upset in the other remaining games, South Africa v Samoa at North Harbour on Friday will decide the fortunes of all three. SA are in the driver's seat, but it could still come down to bonus points.
Who of the Springboks, Wales or Samoa will top the group – and who'll be heading home early?
This blog is supported by Maximuscle, suppliers of sports nutrition to Courtney Lawes, Joe Simpson and the Welsh Rugby Team.
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