The ‘Ikale Tahi faced a challenging defeat against Romania, losing 25-15 after leading 15-11 in the final 20 minutes of their match in Bucharest. The outcome was particularly disappointing considering the Tongans had a strong performance against Romania just a year prior, winning 45-24 during the Rugby World Cup in France.
Head coach Tevita Tu’ifua expressed his disappointment with the match, highlighting that crucial mistakes cost the team the victory. A defensive error resulted in a knock-on that allowed Romanian winger Tevita Manumua to score, putting Romania ahead 16-15. Despite having opportunities to regain the lead, including a penalty inside the Romania 22, the Tongans struggled to maintain possession and were penalized, ultimately leading to Romania’s successful penalty kicks that sealed their win.
Tu’ifua acknowledged the need for improvement but remained optimistic, stating, “We will learn and move on to the next one.” The match serves as a critical learning experience as the team prepares for the 2027 Rugby World Cup qualifiers, with many younger players gaining valuable game time.
In other rugby news, the Flying Fijians have welcomed back several experienced players from Europe for their upcoming match against Wales in Cardiff. Captain Waisea Nayacalevu, along with Semi Radradra, Josua Tuisova, and Jiuta Wainiqolo, have been named in the starting lineup after missing their recent loss to Scotland due to club commitments. The match against Wales is set for Monday morning, showcasing Fiji’s determination to bounce back.
This mix of outcomes highlights the evolving landscape of Pacific rugby, with teams nurturing young talent while also relying on experienced players to lead the charge in international fixtures.
Overall, the results prompt a reflective moment for the Tongan squad, with a focus on growth and development as they head into future matches, ensuring they can harness these learning experiences for improved performances ahead.
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