Coach Mahonri Schwalger has announced the inclusion of two uncapped players in the Samoan lineup for their match against the FIJI Water Flying Fijians in the Pacific Nations Cup opener in Suva today. Lalomilo Lalomilo will make his debut at outside centre, joining seasoned player Alapati Leiua in the midfield. Lalomilo was recently part of the Samoan sevens team that ranked tenth at the Olympic Games earlier this month.
In addition, Tuna Tuitama, another former sevens player, will also make his debut on the wing. Two more players could have the chance to debut as substitutes, with tighthead prop Brook Toomalatai and back row Jonah Mau’u included on the bench.
Theo McFarland from Saracens will continue to serve as captain after leading the team to victories over Italy and Spain in July. The match is set to kick off at 6 PM.
Samoa’s starting team includes: Aki Seiuli, Andrew Tuala, Marco Fepulea’i, Ben Nee Nee, Samuel Slade, Theo McFarland, Murphy Taramai, OJ Noa, Melani Matavao, D’Angelo Leuila, Pisi Leilua, Alapati Leiua, Lalomilo Lalomilo, Tuna Tuitama, and Tomasi Alosio.
The replacements are: Sama Malolo, Tietie Tuimauga, Brook Toomalatai, Senio Toleafoa, Jonah Mau’u, Danny Tusitala, Afa Moleli, and Stacey Ili.