Chiefs ready for the challenge

By Ulimasao Fata 27 September 2017, 12:00AM

The Chiefs from Aana, Aiga i le Tai and Falelatai will look to make history this Saturday.

They want to become the first Super 9 Rugby Champions.

Having swept aside all that’s been in their way this season, only the Taula Eels of Vaimauga stand in the way of the Chiefs realizing their goal.

The Chiefs have been one of the most entertaining teams of the tournament. Their only loss has been against the Eels, which is something they want to avenge this Saturday.

They reached the final after a tough encounter with the Southern Tornadoes of Falealili and Siumu last week.

Head Coach, Fa’asuaga Seufale Fanueli, said his team is well prepared and they are raring to go.

 “We are grateful to be in the final,” he said. 

“We give all the glory to God for his help. The whole tournament has not been an easy task but everyone has worked hard and we are looking forward to the challenge this Saturday.”

Fanueli said their main aim from the beginning was to make the final and now that they have achieved that goal, they want to go one better by taking the trophy to the west of Upolu.

“Our Management has worked really hard in getting our team to where it is right now. The boys have stepped up really well with all the planning and preparations we handed out to them since the beginning.”

The coach added that the only set back is the unavailability of some of his key players who are in the Samoa A, scheduled to leave Samoa next week.

 “Our preparations have been affected by the Samoa A because we have players who played last week and started for us and they are keen to play in the final but they are going to watch from the sideline,” he said.

“The good thing now is that in the beginning we were able to work with all the players involved in the wider squad team so that they can step up in this time of need.”

“That’s why this week is all about making sure that the boys step up and making the most of their opportunities.” 

Fanueli is confident about their winning chances.

“We are not going for second place,” he said.  “I guess we have achieved our first goal already, and right now we are putting our focus and mindset on playing the kind of rugby that can win us the final.”

“I’m sure the Eels are not coming for the second prize either but I believe we have prepared well and we are ready to take on the challenge this weekend.”

By Ulimasao Fata 27 September 2017, 12:00AM
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