Samoa A named for Tonga A clash

Samoa A have made several changes to their lineup to play Tonga A on Saturday morning in the hope of picking up something from a what has been a difficult Pacific Challenge campaign so far.

Coach Falanaipupu Setu Tuilaepa has reshuffled his props, locks, number eight, first five, centres and fullback for the match on Saturday at A.N.Z. Stadium in Fij, after the team suffered a 76-3 loss to Junior Japan in their second game of the tournament.

Loosehead prop Saini Iese drops to the bench with Jack Laban coming into the side to replace him.

Agapae Peleseuma will prop up the other side of the scrum, while Noel Sanft falls out of the 23.

Lock Mesulame Skelton is also dropped, with Kirisimasi Tiumalu promoted from the bench to take his place.

Miracle Faiilagi will partner him in the middle of the scrum, with Ailepata Junior Lemalu taking over for him at blindside flanker.

Captain Joseph Maranata Faleafaga replaces Kaisa Alauni Fatu at number eight, while Phillipe Toelupe comes forward from fullback to the first five position.

There are nine players in the lineup from the Samoa Under-20 side that defeated Tonga Under-20 36-0 at Apia Park last month.

Samoa A will be hoping for a similar sort of effort against a more experienced Tongan side on Saturday.

Kickoff is at 11am local time. 

Samoa A team

1. Jack Laban

2. Jenny Taateo

3. Agape Peleseuma

4. Kirisimasi Tiumalu

5. Miracle Faiilagi

6. Ailepata Junior Lemalu

7. Mark Tusigaigoa

8. Joseph Maranata Faleafaga (c)

9. Des Sepulona

10. Philippe Toelupe

11. Luke Malietoa

12. Taunu’u Niulevaea

13. Joephi Pama Kalolo

14. Owen Niue

15. Farani Ah Sam

16. Saini Iese

17. Terence To’omata

18. Tovia Taisali 

19. Pena Taumata

20. Kaisa Alauni Fatu

21. Faleniu Iosi (vc)

22. Vaimoli Alosina

23. Reupena Sevealii