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Suva - Samoa head coach Fuimaono Titimaea Tafua has named his side for their first outing of the Pacific Nations Cup when they tackle Fiji at ANZ Stadium in Suva.
The side features three debutants in the form of Harlequins' formidable number eight Mat Luamanu, former Samoa Sevens speedster Ed Fidow who now plays with Bordeaux in France on the right wing and former Brumbies flyhalf, now a Western Force convert, Rodney Iona who will make his debut off the bench.
Samoa captain Chris Vui was very positive about their preparations despite the short amount of time the team has to assemble.
“For the short amount of time, the boys have been working really hard to form combinations and set new structures for the game plan against Fiji. Difficult with the short get together but everyone is doing their part to be there best come game day," he said.
“They have a dangerous pack but we're up for the challenge. The game plan is really simple due to the time together, but we have a big defensive mind-set to stop the Fijians offloading and stopping them early before they get their heads up and momentum with the ball."
Luamanu, who is one of the three debutants this coming Saturday, is extremely humbled by the opportunity to play for the Manu.
“Honoured to represent my country. It has been a dream to play for the Manu and so thankful for the opportunity. Obviously as Samoan born in NZ wanting to play for my family and country. I will give it my 120% for us all," Luamanu said.
Teams:
Fiji
15 Kini Murimurivalu, 14 Benito Masilevu, 13 Jale Vatubua, 12 Sevanaia Galala, 11 Vereniki Goneva, 10 Ben Volavola, 9 Henry Seniloli, 8 Akapusi Qera (captain), 7 Viliame Mata, 6 Dominiko Waqaniburotu, 5 Leone Nakarawa, 4 Apisalome Ratuniyarawa, 3 Manasa Saulo, 2 Talemaitoga Tuapati, 1 Campese Ma’afu
Substitutes: 16 Ratu Vere Vugakoto, 17 Eroni Mawi, 18 Ropate Rinakama, 19 Sikeli Nabou, 20 Nemani Nagusa, 21 Serupepeli Vularika, 22 Alivereti Veitokani, 23 Timoci Nagusa
Samoa
15 Ahsee Tuala, 14 Ed Fidow, 13 Rey Lee-Lo, 12 Alapati Leiua, 11 Sinoti Sinoti, 10 Tusi Pisi, 9 Melani Matavao, 8 Mat Luamanu, 7 Jack Lam, 6 Piula Faasalele, 5 Chris Vui (captain), 4 Josh Tyrell, 3 Paul Alo-Emile, 2 Motu Matu'u, 1 Logovii Mulipola
Substitutes: 16 Seilala Lam, 17 Jordan Lay, 18 Viliamu Afatia, 19 Joe Tekori, 20 TJ Ioane, 21 Dwayne Polataivao, 22 Rodney Iona, 23 Paul Perez
