Leading his nation against the Flying Fijians in the Pacific Nations Cup opening match at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva is a significant honor for Manu Samoa captain Theo McFarland. In an interview with SUNsports following a captain’s rugby session, the 28-year-old lock, who plays for Saracens in the Gallagher Premiership, expressed his awareness of the hefty challenge but also his gratitude for the opportunity.
McFarland noted that he will be facing off against Flying Fijians prop Eroni Mawi, who will be sitting on the reserve bench. “The Flying Fijians are a very good side,” he remarked. He emphasized that, although Samoa has a young team, they intend to focus on their defensive strategies when facing Fiji, while also identifying weaknesses they can exploit against their Fijian counterparts.
Samoa’s head coach, Mahoni Schwalger, praised McFarland for his young leadership as he prepares to lead his team into the challenging match. “He is doing really well. Theo is handling the captaincy effectively, providing guidance and taking charge of his pack,” Schwalger stated.