Manu Samoa head coach Mahonri Schwalger expressed enthusiasm ahead of their opening match in the Pacific Nations Cup, emphasizing the excitement surrounding the team. During their captain’s run at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, Schwalger noted the significance of the match, as it aligns with the Samoa Rugby Union’s 100th anniversary celebration.
He acknowledged the challenge posed by the Flying Fijians, highlighting their physicality and unpredictable playing style. Schwalger, a former captain of the Samoan national team and a member of the Chiefs’ Super Rugby winning side from 2012 to 2013, stated that the match represents a major undertaking for his players, many of whom will be experiencing Fiji for the first time.
The historical context of rugby in Samoa was also noted, with Schwalger reflecting on how the Marist Brothers introduced the game to the country in 1920 and the formation of the Apia Rugby Union in 1924. Samoa played its first international match against Fiji on August 18, 1924, which Fiji won 6-0.
Schwalger assured fans that the team has been diligently preparing over the past three weeks and is ready to perform with the eyes of their nation upon them. The match is set to kick off at 6 PM.