Manu Samoa head coach Mahonri Schwalger expressed enthusiasm ahead of their Pacific Nations Cup opener against the Flying Fijians, emphasizing the challenge posed by their opponents during a training session at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
“We are truly excited to be here,” Schwalger stated to SUNsports. “It’s a new year and a new competition, and we’re looking forward to a good game.”
Having played for the winning Chiefs team in Super Rugby from 2012 to 2013, Schwalger is aware of the physicality expected from the Flying Fijians and recognizes their unpredictability as a significant challenge.
He highlighted the match’s importance as it coincides with the Samoa Rugby Union’s centennial celebration. Rugby was introduced to Samoa by the Marist Brothers in 1920, with the Apia Rugby Union formed in 1924. Notably, Samoa faced Fiji in their first international match on August 18, 1924, which Fiji won 6–0.
Schwalger acknowledged the task ahead, stating, “It is a big year for us. We play Fiji every year, and the boys know what is expected. Our whole nation is watching and supporting us throughout the campaign.”
He noted that the team has been training diligently over the past three weeks and is ready for a competitive encounter, especially for the new players experiencing Fiji for the first time.
The match is set to kick off at 6pm.