Vuate Karawalevu and Epeli Momo are set to make their debuts for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians in the opening match against Samoa at the Pacific Nations Cup in Suva tomorrow. Momo has been assigned to the left wing position, while Karawalevu will play at fullback.
Halfback Moses Sorovi and center Apisalome Vota will also experience their first caps coming off the bench. Coach Mick Byrne has selected a robust starting lineup featuring Haereiti Hetet, Captain Ikanivere, and Samuela Tawake in the front row. The locks will be Isoa Nasilasila and Temo Mayanavanua, with Meli Derenalagi as the blindside flanker and Kitione Salawa on the openside. Elia Canakaivata will play at number 8.
In the halfback positions, Frank Lomani and Caleb Muntz will partner up. Momo will be joined on the wing by Olympic silver medalist Selestino Ravutaumada, while fellow Olympic medalist Iosefo Masi will occupy the midfield alongside Inia Tabuavou, with Karawalevu wearing the number 15 jersey.
The bench will include Sorovi and Vota along with Mesulame Dolokoto, Eroni Mawi, Peni Ravai, Ratu Leone Rotuisolia, Albert Tuisue, and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 6 PM.