Upolu starts 08 strongly

With the champions tag from 2007 fresh in their minds, Upolu Samoa has sent a strong message to other teams that again they are going to be hard to beat in 08. Travelling away to Churchill Park in Fiji did little to put them off their game, even though the local team the Fiji Barbarians scored early, the Samoans took control and their grip just got firmer as the hot muggy evening went on. As usual the Upolu Samoa were very tough in the pack, these inroads were built on by their very impressive midfield backs. Wearing the number 13 jersey, but playing like a number 8 on a mission Gasolo Salima caused havoc against the Barbarians all night. This go forward propelled the Samoans and left the Fiji Barbarians flat footed and making tackles most of the night. Salima was rewarded for all the work with two great tries.

The Fijians did have their moments, Vima Tuidraki picked up a nice try and openside flanker Mitieli Cama put in a mountain of tackles. Big lock Kolinio Vasuilagi dominated the line-outs for the Barbarians, however little was done with the ball once it was won. The home side showed glimpses of what they can do, they now need to show a bit more patience and hit the ball with pace to threaten teams in this competition. Upolu Samoa will be very pleased with their momentum and their sharpness this early on in the competition will send out some fear.

Fiji Barbarians 5  Upolu Samoa 22