MANU Samoa revived its campaign in the World Rugby Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup with a convincing 43-17 victory over Ikale Tahi Tonga in Apia on Friday.
This bonus-point win places Samoa among the top two teams in Pool A, tying with Fiji on five points, although Samoa has played one more match.
The game was particularly significant as it marked the 100th anniversary of Samoa Rugby as a test-playing nation, and they maintained their impressive record in Apia, extending their winning streak over Tonga to 20 matches, a dominance they have maintained for the last 44 years.
In total, Samoa has won 39 encounters against Tonga since their first matchup in 1926, with Tonga claiming 26 victories and two matches ending in draws. Samoa has been particularly dominant in their capital during the professional era.
Head coach Mase Mahonri Schwalger made six changes to the lineup, along with one positional adjustment, following their earlier defeat to Fiji, where they lost 42-16 in Suva.
Tonga, playing its initial PNC match of the season, started strong, but Samoa opened the scoring with a converted try by outside centre Stacey Ili. Halfback Melani Matavao assisted Moana Pasifika recruit Tuna Tuitama in scoring the second try, pushing Samoa’s lead to 14-0. A converted penalty just before halftime left Samoa ahead 17-0.
In the second half, Tonga attempted to rebound with renewed vigor, but fundamental errors and weak defense hindered their performance, allowing Samoa to score an additional 26 points.
While Samoa occupies second place, Tonga now faces a must-win scenario against the Fiji Water Flying Fijians. They will clash in Nuku’alofa on September 6.
The third-placed team from the Pacific pool will go on to meet the third-placed team from the Asia pool, which includes Japan, Canada, and the United States. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the semi-finals in Tokyo.