Manu Samoa head coach Mahonri Schwalger expressed excitement as his team prepares to face the Flying Fijians in their Pacific Nations Cup opener at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Speaking during a training session, Schwalger highlighted the competitive spirit of the upcoming match, stating, “We are really excited to be here.” He emphasized that this year marks a new competition and they are eager for a strong performance.
Schwalger, who played for the Chiefs when they won the Super Rugby title in 2012 and 2013, acknowledged the physicality they can expect from the Fijian team. “Our challenge is the unpredictability of the Fiji players,” he added. He also noted that the match holds special significance as it coincides with the Samoa Rugby Union’s centennial celebrations.
Rugby was introduced to Samoa by the Marist Brothers in 1920, leading to the formation of the Apia Rugby Union in 1924. Samoa’s first international match against Fiji occurred on August 18, 1924, where Fiji emerged victorious.
Schwalger is aware of the weight of the task ahead, reminding his players that their nation is rallying behind them. “It’s a big year for us. We play Fiji every year, and the boys know what is expected,” he said. The team has spent the last three weeks preparing for the match, with some players experiencing Fiji for the first time. “It will be an awesome game,” he declared.
The match is set to kick off at 6 PM.