Moana Pasifika celebrated a significant moment in their 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season with a thrilling 40-31 victory over the Hurricanes, marking their first win of the year. This match was particularly special for captain Ardie Savea, who faced his former team for the first time since joining the expansion side.
The game was highlighted by an impressive performance from Miracle Faiʻilagi, who scored a hat-trick, making him central to Moana’s success. The match opened with Brayden Iose scoring for the Hurricanes, but Faiʻilagi quickly ignited a wave of momentum, helping Moana roll off 28 unanswered points. Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa added another try, taking advantage of the Hurricanes’ struggles after Iose received a yellow card.
Maintaining their energy into the second half, Moana Pasifika saw Faiʻilagi score again, pushing their lead to 16 points. While the Hurricanes managed a brief resurgence with a try from Peter Lakai, Faiʻilagi’s final try cemented the win, keeping the visitors at bay despite late scores from Ngatungane Punivai and Jone Rova.
Ardie Savea’s leadership has shone throughout this season, demonstrating his commitment to transforming Moana Pasifika into a competitive team. This victory serves as a beacon of hope for the squad and its fans as they aim for continued success in the Super Rugby Pacific. With a rich cultural heritage fueling their spirit, Moana Pasifika is poised to provide more exciting rugby in the weeks ahead, inspiring optimism among their supporters.
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