Manu Samoa head coach Mahonri Schwalger expressed his excitement ahead of their Pacific Nations Cup opener against the Flying Fijians. Speaking during a training session at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, Schwalger emphasized the team’s readiness for the match, acknowledging the physicality and unpredictability of their opponents.
He pointed out that this year’s competition marks a significant milestone, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the Samoa Rugby Union. The history of rugby in Samoa dates back to 1920, when the Marist Brothers introduced the sport, leading to 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 noted the importance of the game, saying they are aware of the expectations from their nation as they prepare to face Fiji. He mentioned that the team has been training diligently over the past three weeks and acknowledged that some players are experiencing their first tour of Fiji.
The highly anticipated match is scheduled to kick off at 6 PM.