Samoa to focus on team work against Aust

Samoa Coach Seilala Mapusua is focused on seeing his new squad perform together in their first game of the Pacific Nations Cup against Australia A at the  HFC Stadium in Suva tomorrow.

The former Manu Samoa inside centre said with a mix of seasoned and inexperienced players, getting them to gel as one cohesive unit was the first task on the list.

“We just want to ensure everyone is on the same page,” Mapusua told FijiLive.

“There are players from all over the world, from different competitions and with a very short timeframe to prepare, we have to get the work right.”

Coming against a strong side like Australia A laced with Wallabies talents, Mapusua said the task would not be easy.

“It is never easy, it will be a challenge, but we are up for it.”

Samoa has named a strong side including eight debutants for the clash that kicks off at 1pm.

Samoa lineup: Aki Seiuli, Seilala Lam, Michael Alaalatoa, Samuel Slade, Chris Vui, Olajwon Noa, Alamanda Motuga, Fritz Lee, Ereatara Enari, Rodney Iona, Nigel Ah Wong, D'Angelo Leuila, Neria Fomai, Lolagi Visinia, Danny Toala, Ray Niua, Andrew Tuala, Marco Fepuleai, Theo Mcfarland, Henry Time-Stowers, Jack Lam, Jonathan Taumateine, Henry Taefu.

By Noa Biudole