Manu Samoa ready to take on Germany

By Nefertiti Matatia 29 June 2018, 12:00AM

The Manu Samoa team is ready to give their all on the field today when they take on Germany at 3pm at Apia Park. 

This will be the second time the teams will meet ever since Bonn 1989 when Samoa thrashed Germany 54-9.

Manu Samoa Coach, Fuimaono Titimaea Tafua said the team they have so far is the best squad they have for this year.

“There has been a major change within the team and the previous games that we had. We no longer think about it for the reason that those games, the opportunity was given for all the players to play and for us to observe.

“Today (yesterday) is our captains run. This is going to be our last training before our match with Germany, but I believe that the boys are ready.

“We have already looked into ways that we could overcome the German team and within our management team there are people with specific tasks to carry out whether it is the scrum or the lineout, back line and defense.”

Fuimaono also highlighted the importance of the game between Samoa and Germany.

“The importance of this game is the future of rugby here in Samoa. First, because this is our ticket to the World Cup, secondly if we make it to the World Cup, it will open up another doorway for the players in the Manu Samoa team.”

Though it has been awhile they have played the German team, they are not underestimating what their opponent can offer on the field.

“For everyone to be aware the German team is not new to rugby there is a European tournament that they normally participate in. The German team has been playing for a long time; we had our first match with them in 1989,” he added.

When asked of his response to the statements that were made by Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi about the Manu Samoa team.

Fuimaono stated: “Us Samoans we are like that and with what the Prime Minister said it is him talking as a loving father that wants the best for the team. But it has not hinder the preparation of the Manu Samoa team everything is well.”

Manu Samoa team manager, Aloi Alesana said are comfortable playing in their home ground.

“The boys are ready for tomorrow (today). The mood in the team outside of rugby is really happy. They are enjoying the atmosphere, they can’t wait to play. 

“The boys cannot wait to perform because they have seen the support that has been given by the public. Even the schools and the students the way they performed. It was really empowering and it has given them are reason to play stronger in their upcoming match.” 

Aloi is calling on all Samoans to come out in numbers and support the boys. 

“Samoa I know the past has been good platform for us, but we really ask for your support. We thank the country first for your support that has been given to us despite the results of the game.

“The country has shown a lot of support for the team, but we pray that the people will continue to give the same support for the team. Come over today.” 

By Nefertiti Matatia 29 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.

>