Johnston back for Tonga

By Mathias Huckert 24 June 2016, 12:00AM

When the Manu Samoa enters the field on Saturday, they can count on the support of one of their old troupers: Census Johnston. 

Being one the squad’s oldest players, the 35-year old prop who is currently under contract at the French club Stade Toulousain first had to get used to the amount of younger players in the team.

“It feels a bit weird to me,” he said. “Probably being the oldest in the team, but of course through the years I had a lot of experience and hopefully I can give back some of it to the younger players if they’re open to it. But I am not going to try and force them to do so.”

For Johnston, the process of putting on the Manu Jersey once again is an honourable one.

“It is always a pleasure to come back and play for the Manu. It certainly is a lot different from playing in my club in France, but it is definitely refreshing to be in an environment where you’re always down for hard games and it’s just a lot of fun being around with my Samoan brothers here”.

Even though he commiserates his absence in the Manu’s match against the team from Georgia two weeks ago and last week against Fiji, Johnston is looking forward to tackle Tonga this Saturday in Apia Park Stadium. 

“There is a lot of history in between this match and it is really important for us to qualify for the upcoming World Cup, so the boys have worked well this week and I am sure we can pull up a good result..

Johnston said the team are in good spirits 

 “Preparations have being good so far, we had a bit of a light week this week in which we’re just trying to recover.”

 For this Saturday, Johnston is sure that the Manu Samoa will be doing their best to represent their country.

By Mathias Huckert 24 June 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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