Fiji
1 Eroni Mawi
2 Sam Matavesi
3 Manasa Saulo
4 Apisalome Ratuniyarawa
5 Tevita Ratuva
6 Isoa Nasilasila
7 Rusiate Nasove
8 Albert Tuisue
9 Frank Lomani
10 Ben Volavola
11 Vinaya Habosi
12 Vilimoni Botitu
13 Waisea Nayacalevu {c}
14 Jiuta Wainiqolo
15 Setareki Tuicuvu
Reserves
16 Tevita Ikanivere
17 Haereiti Hetet
18 Luke Tagi
19 Temo Mayanavanua
20 Kitione Kamikamica
21 Peni Matawalu
22 Setareki Tamanivalu
23 Josua Tuisova
Samoa has gone with a mobile and dynamic pack with both Vui & McFarland equally adept at playing in the back row. Interesting to see how Lee and Taufua operate in tandem, could be an ace move.
I reckon the question will be if the Fijians from the Tonga game show up, will the Manu Samoa team be able to handle the physicality and home field advantage?
Congratulations Manu Samoa.
I find it interesting how many tries have been scored from lineout drives in this tournament when you expect the PI teams to be more expansive in these conditions. Perhaps a sign of more pragmatism from the coaching staff and players.
@Bovidae said in Fiji v Samoa (Pacific Nations Cup):
Congratulations Manu Samoa.
I find it interesting how many tries have been scored from lineout drives in this tournament when you expect the PI teams to be more expansive in these conditions. Perhaps a sign of more pragmatism from the coaching staff and players.
And the irony is that Fiji who have mauled well tried a long LO throw at the death to try and win rather than go for a high % play just 5m out.
Was an entertaining game and well done to the ref for not getting over excited when there were a couple of fracas between the teams.
Rapt for Manu Samoa, did exactly what was needed ie, weather the physicality and power of the Fijian team to grind out a victory. I must admit I didn’t see the line out as a strength of the Manu Samoa team so to see them dominate in that area (did the same to Tonga) is new. By contrast Fiji’s scrum was super dominant.
They need to continue the momentum and I really hope the likes of Sopoaga and Luatua make themselves available for future games. Bringing NH players like Fritz Lee and Jordan Taufua into the side mixed with Super players was a master stroke, unlike the Tongans who couldn’t integrate and take advantage of Folau and Piutau.
Disappointing performance by Fiji, at home with all to play for they couldn’t reproduce the form which saw them blow the Tongans away. Too many mistakes, poor decision making etc. They don’t lack the firepower, just the game plan and discipline.
@TheMojoman They could get Lealiifano for their EOYT too. He becomes eligible in October. Having him and Sopoaga would put them well ahead of Fiji and Tonga as far as game drivers go. Even Rodney Iona is better than any 10 Fiji and Tonga have.
I'm guessing Samoa were the least fancied to win the PNC, so well done to them. They're now up to 11th in the world and are probably a couple of props and outside backs away from really pushing into the top 10.
7 days later
