Manu Samoa issued stern challenge as team named for USA clash

Manu Samoa head coach Mahonri Schwalger has delivered a dose of confidence to his team who suffered a 22-point loss at the hands of Japan in the Pacific Nations Cup semi-final, making just one change to the starting XV for the third-place final.

That lone change comes in the form of a promotion for Michael Curry, who replaces Samuel Slade in the starting second row, where he’ll look to inspire a more competitive performance in the set piece compared to last week’s beating.

In an otherwise relatively impressive outing from the Samoan forwards, their set-piece game was dominated by Japan, leaving coach Schwalger with a clear focus for the week’s training.

Schwalger told RugbyPass his side were going back to basics ahead of the final round in Osaka, challenging his players to make the necessary jump to beat the USA and claim a podium finish at the tournament.

No one was exempt from the coach’s sentiment, even standout performer No. 8 Iakopo Patelo Mapu was challenged to back up his 25-tackle game and go one better in the Osaka heat.

One change comes on the bench in the form of Jonah Mau’u, who replaces Murphy Taramai in the No. 20 jersey, no doubt with the same goal of delivering the power in the engine room.

Samoa team to face USA

1. Aki Seilu
2. Sama Malolo
3. Marco Fepuleai
4. Benjamin Petaia Nee-Nee
5. Michael Curry
6. Theo MacFarland (c)
7. Izaiha Moore-Aiono
8. Iakopo Patelo Mapu
9. Melani Matavao
10. Rodney Iona
11. Elisapeta Alofipo
12. Alapati Leiua
13. Lalomilo Lalomio
14. Tuna Tuitama
15. Tomasi Alosio

Reserves

16. Luteru Tolai
17. Andrew Tuala
18. Brook Toomalatai
19. Samuel Slade
20. Jonah Mau’u
21. Danny Tusitala
22. Afa Moleli
23. Melani Nanai