Solomon Islands have started off strongly in the rugby 7s competition at the SPG.

Solomon Islands brushed off early tournament jitters by hitting the Vanuatu side with three tries early in the first half. Viv Kelesi scored three tries from well executed plays.

Vanuatu responded in the second half and seemingly rose to the challenge by defending more aggressively. They scored a quick try but any hope of catching up was washed out by a try from Leslie Puia putting Solomon Islands ahead 24-5.

Solomon Islands will need to beat American Samoa to have any chance of reaching the second round.

In related news, Solomon Islands has won its second bronze medal yesterday in the karate competition.