The Fiji Times: FIJI sevens rugby coach Iliesa Tanivula last night admitted he had a tough time when he was first appointed mentor but the support of his family, players and their family kept him going.

The Namotomoto villager is now reaping the rewards as last night he coached the team to its first ever New Zealand International title since 2006.

Fiji beat Samoa 19-14 in gritty contested final at Westpac Trust Stadium last night in front of 35,000 fans.

The emotional Tanivula, who is always known for his calm, was overjoyed with his third title win within one year of his appointment, which came last February.

"I am only human and at times comments do get to you," Tanivula said.

"It makes you stressed and I did go through that but as times goes on you develop a thick skin because that is only what will help you.

"I must thank my family and the players and their wives, parents and families, who have stood by us the past year."

The former Super 12 rep and New Zealand sevens international, Tanivula's coaching credentials came to the limelight when he coached Nadi to the Digicel and Farebrother cups in 2007.

He said it always took time to bring the win and this is what happened with him and nothing could be done overnight.

"The players too deserve full credit because they have withstood the pressures within the past year and delivered," he said.

"Even when we camped during the festive season, I was criticised but we knew very well what was needed to be done after Dubai and Gerorge."

07 February, 2010