of rugby
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W-Samoa Independence
A feast of rugby
Independence celebrations
have created a windfall for rugby-crazy Samoans, with four internationals being played this month at Apia Park, the home of the national team. On Saturday, the national side clashes with Ireland before facing the New Zealand Maoris, Tonga, and finally Fiji in the first week of July.
The Irish, who suffered a 41-25 loss to the Samoans when the teams met at Landsdowne Road in November, play six matches in New Zealand culminating in a Test against the Maoris before taking on the home side.
Manu Samoa will play composite sides in preparation.
Although Western Samoa lost to the New Zealand Maoris on their 1995 tour to New Zealand, it was the 60-0 lockout that Fiji handed out during last year’s tri-series that most supporters will be keen to see avenged.
“The Fijians were just too good on the day - we were in the game but they were just on a roll.
“I think with a good build-up through the other Tests, we should be able to give them a better game this time round,” says Samoan fullback Veli Patu.
The Fijians could still spoil the party, though, with a squad that is full of talent.
Although the Manu Samoa have a home town advantage, they will have to be on the ball to maintain their no-loss record at Apia Park that now stretches back to 1992.
The availability of champion winger Va’aiga Tuigamala, who is reported to be enthusiastic about playing the Test season, has yet to be confirmed. His presence could be a deciding factor with his game breaking ability.
Independence Test Fixtures: versus Ireland June 7; v New Zealand Maoris June 14; v Tonga June 28; v Fiji July 5. ■