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Manu Samoa captains run at Mt Smart Stadium. Photo: Manu Samoa
Manu Samoa are prepared to take on a determined ‘Ikale Tahi side in Auckland today, in the first of two tests to decide who will qualify for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Samoa go into the match having suffered back-to-back defeats to the New Zealand Māori, but put in an improved 38-21 effort in last weekend’s encounter, compared to their 35-10 defeat the week prior.
Meanwhile Tonga will be looking to put last week’s 102-0 defeat to the All Blacks behind them.
Manu Samoa coach Vaovasamanaia Seilala Mapusua said there’s a few bumps and bruises from their last two outings, but it’s nothing the blue jersey can’t fix.
Samoan hooker Ray Niuia on the charge
Photo: Photosport
After a physical but low-scoring first half, Samoa took a 6-3 lead into the break, with two Henry Taefu penalties offset by one from Tongan halfback Sonatane Takulua.
Taefu slotted another penalty soon after the restart, then hooker Ray Niuia was on hand out wide to finish some strong running and slick passing with Samoa s first try.
Five minutes later flanker Alamanda Motuga crashed over from close range to extend Samoa s lead to 21-3, only for Tonga to hit back almost immediately with a try to replacement flanker Villami Taulani.
But Samoa continued to control play, closing out the game with tries to Taefu, Ed Fidow and Stacey Ili for a comprehensive win.