Upolu set to re-lift PRC trophy

Favourites Upolu Samoa names a strong line-up to defend its 2007 PRC Title. In what will be a humdinger of match, Upolu Head Coach Selefuti Patu says he’s confident his team’s got the winning game plan against Tonga’s Tautahi Gold.

“We’re very chuffed to be playing at the business end of the tournament with all our players injury free and competing for spots. I was very happy with the manner of our win over Tautahi last week.

Upolu’s 26-10 win over Tautahi Gold in the fifth and final round was not a surprise said Fepuleai.

“We locked them down at the mauls, at the rucks and around the fringes. In doing those basics, it allowed our flyhalf to control the game and gave our backline space and options to execute our plays. It showed that what we worked on before the tournament started and the effort put in is gelling together perfectly.”.

The final will be test-match intensity with both teams fielding teams laden with international stars and Apia Park expected to be at near to full capacity.

Fepuleai was quick to acknowledge the key role played by the other Samoan team—Savaii Samoa. “Our fourth round loss to Savaii Samoa was an excellent wake-up call for us. It jolted the squad out of complacency and over-confidence that was clearly evident in that match. As a result, we quickly addressed the issues and revised our game plan—and here we are pumped for the finals.”

The finals match is also an important one for Upolu players pushing for Manu Samoa selection. Manu Samoa Head Coach, Tuala Niko Palamo says, “The final will be the last selection opportunity for players. We will announce our team straight after that.”

Manu Samoa’s Pacific Nations Cup campaign kicks off against Fiji on 7 June.
 
Game:        Final-Pacific Rugby Cup
Date:         23 May 2008
Venue:      Apia Park Stadium, Samoa
Kick-off:    5pm