The Manu Samoa rugby team, known as the Flying Fijians, is gearing up for their Pacific Nations Cup opener, with the team’s head coach Mahonri Schwalger expressing enthusiasm during a training session at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Schwalger, a former captain of Samoa during the 2011 Rugby World Cup, emphasized the excitement surrounding the match, marking a new year and new competition.
Schwalger, who played a pivotal role in the Chiefs’ Super Rugby victory from 2012 to 2013, described the challenge posed by the Flying Fijians as they anticipate a physically demanding game. He acknowledged the unpredictable nature of Fiji’s playing style and noted the significance of the match coinciding with the 100-year anniversary of the Samoa Rugby Union.
The history of rugby in Samoa traces back to the arrival of the Marist Brothers in 1920, leading to the formation of the Apia Rugby Union in 1924. The first international match played by Western Samoa was against Fiji on August 18, 1924, in Apia, resulting in a 6-0 victory for Fiji.
Schwalger recognized the challenge ahead and the importance of delivering a strong performance on Fiji’s home soil. He stated that the team is under the watchful eyes of their nation, which has been rallying behind them in support throughout the competition.
With the team having prepared intensively over the past three weeks leading up to the match, Schwalger mentioned that some of the new players would be experiencing their first game in Fiji, adding to the excitement. The match is set to kick off at 6 PM.