RWC: Vaeluagaomatagi confirms Manu Samoa team to play against Japan

Manu Samoa coach Vaeluagaomatagi Steve Jackson has named his team to take on Japan in Samoa’s third 2019 Rugby World Cup fixture on Saturday evening in Toyota. There are six changes to the starting line-up from that which lost 34-0 to Scotland.

“We just need to bring some new energy and excitement into this group. There are a couple of boys who looked tired last week. The changes are really to compete against a Japanese team who play the game pretty fast. So we want to put out a team that we think can go out and do the job,” said Vaeluagaomatagi.

Dwayne Polataivao returns from concussion and has been named as starting halfback. While Ulupano Junior Seuteni has been promoted from the reserves into the number ten jersey.

“I thought UJ played really well when he came off the bench against Scotland. He executed really well and took the ball to the line strong – so he deserves his opportunity.”

In the forwards Piula Fa’asalele and Jordan Lay have also been rewarded for strong performances with selection into the starting XV.

“Piula, starting at lock, just gives us that sort of loose forward – lock speed around the park as well. And Jordan Lay has been outstanding for us for a period of time.”

Jordan’s younger brother James has been named on the bench and is poised to make his Rugby World Cup debut.

“Yeah, what an outstanding person first and foremost – what a great kid. You know he’s trained the house down, he never complains and we look for people who can come off the bench and change some things and hopefully he will do just that. He brings good energy and lots of good chat. James knows the game really well and he works hard.”

2019 Rugby World Cup
Manu Samoa v Japan at City of Toyota Stadium, Toyota, Saturday 5 October at 7.30pm JST
Manu Samoa v Ireland at Level 5 Stadium, Fukuoka, Saturday 12 October at 7.45pm JST

Manu Samoa team to play Japan at City of Toyota Stadium, Toyota on Saturday 05 October, 7.30pm JST

1. Jordan Lay (17 Tests)
2. Seilala Lam (14 Tests)
3. Michael Alaalatoa (3 Tests)
4. Piula Fa’asalele (19 Tests)
5. Kane Le’aupepe (7 Tests)
6. Chris Vui (25 Tests)
7. TJ Ioane (23 Tests)
8. Jack Lam (c) (36 Tests)
9. Dwayne Polataivao (11 Tests)
10. UJ Seuteni (4 Tests)
11. Ed Fidow (10 Tests)
12. Henry Taefu (5 Tests)

13. Alapati Leiua (30 Tests)
14. 14. Ah See Tuala (21 Tests)
15. Tim Nanai-Williams (14 Tests)Reserves
    16. Ray Niuia (6 Tests)   17. Paul Alo-Emile (15 Tests)
    18. James Lay (11 Tests)
    19. Senio Toleafoa (3 Tests)
    20. Josh Tyrell (9 Tests)
    21. Pele Cowley (13 Tests)      22.  Tusi Pisi (43 Tests)
    23. Kieron Fonotia (10 Tests)

Source : Press Release : Samoa Rugby Union : Manu Samoa 

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