Mulipola out, Lee-Lo doubtful as Manu prepares for Tonga

12 June 2018, 12:00AM

Manu Samoa will be without hard working prop Logovi’i Mulipola for their next Pacific Nations Cup game against Tonga.

Mulipola tore a hamstring during Samoa’s 22-24 loss to Fiji in Suva last Saturday.

 Team Manager, Vaaelua Aloi Alesana, confirmed that Mulipola would be rested for two weeks, which basically rules him out of the Pacific Nations Cup.

Mulipola is among the casualties from the Fiji match.

Midfielder Rey Lee-Lo is also under a cloud of uncertainty after he took some heavy knocks on the head.

He will be subjected to further tests to determine his availability.

Rodney Iona, also took a knock to the head, and will also await further tests to see whether he can play.

In the meantime, Va’aelua said the team is in great spirits despite the disappointment of narrowly losing to Fiji. 

“The Manu Samoa vs Flying Fijian was a really physical game,” he said. 

“Head coach Fuimaono Titimaea Tafua and the team management would like to

acknowledge the support of our country about our game against the Flying Fijians last weekend. 

“Despite the loss to a very physical Fijian side, the team has identified areas that they need to work on for the game against Tonga at the end of the week as well as the upcoming RWC qualifying games.”

Coach Fuimaono said there is a lot to learn.

 “We are obviously disappointed with the result but happy with the performance by our team especially moving forward towards the two Rugby World Cup Qualifying games.

“We have identified what is needed to work on and we will take positives out of

yesterday (Saturday) game to prepare for the upcoming games.”

Samoa plays Tonga on Saturday at the same venue, ANZ Stadium. Both teams are winless at the Pacific Nations Cup and will be looking to secure a first up victory.

 “There were a number of supporters as well from the Samoan Community in Suva at the Stadium. Apart from injured players mentioned, everyone else is doing well,” Vaaelua said.

12 June 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

Upgrade to Premium

Subscribe to
Samoa Observer Online

Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. You can cancel anytime.

>