The Tonga women’s rugby league team is prepared to give their all as they face Samoa in the upcoming Pacific Bowl Championship at Suva’s HFC Bank Stadium. Tongan international Metanoia Fotu-Moala expressed their determination to win, acknowledging Samoa’s strong performance in previous matches.
Fotu-Moala emphasized the importance of focusing on their own strengths and teamwork during their preparations. Recently, she made headlines as the first local signing for the One New Zealand Warriors, who will make their return to the NRLW next year. At just 25, she joins her siblings in the league, following in the footsteps of her older sister Teuila and twin sister Maatuleio.
Teuila, a former Kiwi Fern, celebrated a premiership win with Brisbane in the inaugural NRLW season in 2018 before moving to St George Illawarra, while Maatuleio recently completed her first season with the Dragons. Fotu-Moala, known as Noia, is the Warriors’ 11th signing and the first from grassroots rugby league in New Zealand.
The Tongan squad understands the hard work required to regain their place in the Pacific Cup Championship, as Samoa shares the same ambitions. “We draw a lot of inspiration from our former players like Mele Hufanga. They inspire us and are role models for us,” Fotu-Moala shared.
When discussing the team’s unity, she remarked on their diverse backgrounds and the honor of representing their nation. The players are eager to showcase their abilities and play for their supporters. The team has maintained high spirits ahead of the pivotal match, looking forward to a strong performance.