The Tonga women’s rugby league team is fully prepared to face Samoa in the upcoming Pacific Bowl Championship at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Tongan international Metanoia Fotu-Moala emphasized their determination to secure a victory in the match.
“During our preparations, we recognize that Samoa is a formidable opponent,” Fotu-Moala stated. “Our focus is on our strengths and what we can accomplish together as a team.”
Fotu-Moala, who recently became the first player signed by the One New Zealand Warriors from local rugby, is set to join the club as it returns to the NRLW (National Rugby League Women) next year. The 25-year-old follows in the footsteps of her older sister Teuila and twin sister Maatuleio, both of whom have previously been contracted NRLW players.
Teuila was a premiership winner with Brisbane in the NRLW’s inaugural season in 2018 and later played for St George Illawarra, while Maatuleio had completed her first season with the Dragons.
Known as Noia, she is the Warriors’ 11th signing overall, marking a significant milestone as the first player signed from grassroots rugby league in New Zealand.
The Tongan team is aware that achieving a return to the Pacific Cup Championship will require hard work, especially since their rivals share the same aspiration. “We draw a lot of inspiration from our former players like Mele Hufanga, who continue to be role models for us,” she added.
When asked about the team’s strengths, Fotu-Moala highlighted their diverse backgrounds and the honor of representing their nation. “This is a warm and enriching experience for us, and we will play this Saturday for our supporters,” she said.
The team is in good spirits leading up to the game and is eager to demonstrate their abilities on match day.