Pride on the line as Tonga plays Japan.

Pride on the line as Tonga plays Japan.

Having not tasted victory yet in this years ANZ Pacific Nations Cup is one thing Tonga and Japan have in common, the other is that if they have an on day they can be devastating.

Be it unlucky, or lack of ability playing for the full 80 mins, both these teams have played below their potential. In the second 40 mins against the JAB’s Japan looked like they could topple any team in the world, tomorrow they will want to carry on in that confident mode.

Japan looked star gazed, or maybe size gazed in their last hit out. Things don’t get any smaller sizing up to the Tongan’s, but at least they know when they are switched on they can compete.

Tonga had a hard time against Samoa, at times their attack was superb and it was utter desperate D that stopped them getting more tries. Facing Japan one would imagine that they would back themselves in the contact area; they will keep the ball tight and give the Japanese a taste of Tongan beef up front. They will be wise to keep spinning the ball too, especially to their courageous fullback, he is keenas mustard to make yards and threaten defensive patterns at any chance.

It will be a dry track in Lautoka for the match and this will see another free flowing match, Japan won the heart of the home crowd for their enterprising play & this will continue again.

Nili Latu is a natural leader, a man that has a presence that men follow & opposition fear. He is the core of Tonga and his voice and impeccable timing will be a major factor in the outcome of this game.

There is a certainty that this matchup will be electric and free flowing, Japan has beaten Tonga the past 2 seasons and there will be a right old battle tomorrow, the winner gains great pride, the second placed side will have another long week of hard training.