WESTERN Samoa, for so long the nearly men at Hongkong, became the new kings of sevens rugby by ending Fiji's three year reign in the final at So Kon Po last night.
After years playing in the shadow of their fellow Pacific Islanders, the Samoans finally gained the recognition they always felt they deserved, beating defending champions Fiji 14-12 in a tense and uncompromising final - a grand climax to two days of hardrugby which took its toll of casualties on both sides.
After destroying New Zealand's hopes in the semi-finals, avenging their quarter-final defeat last year, the Samoans engaged Fiji in an eye-ball to eye-ball pre-final war-dance.
Around 33,000 fans at the partially-built Hongkong Stadium got their first taste of Samoa's intimidating Manu, as the Fijians watched impassively only feet away, having completed their own Cibi.
For captain Danny Kaleopa, who was unable to play in the final because of an injury sustained during the 24-14 victory over New Zealand, victory was the result of intense physical and mental preparations.
''This is what we have been waiting for for a long time. It's only a pity I couldn't be running on the field with the guys,'' said Kaleopa.