‘Tear of joy to every Samoan’

SAMOA'S deputy Prime Minister Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio has told coach Matt Parish and the country's World Cup squad of the impact that qualifying for next weekend's final against Australia will have on the Pacific nation.

Toa Samoa are the first team from their country to play in the final of a World Cup in any sport and their historic 27-26 defeat of England sparked celebrations as far spread as Apia, Auckland, Sydney, Brisbane and Utah. Ponifasio, addressed the Samoa players and coaching staff amid emotion charged scenes in their dressing room at London's Emirates Stadium before speeches by Parish and captain Junior

Paulo. “You have bought a tear of joy to every Samoan back home in their heart,” he said. “You guys don't realise what you have done. Maybe tonight or tomorrow it will sink it.

“Boys I just can't convey enough how your nation feels. I am so proud of everyone here. I am proud of your coach. On behalf of your people, our people, our country, our nation and everyone who supported you today, I want to thank you. Congratulations Toa Samoa, you have done it.”

The dressing room scenes were recorded and posted on injured prop Martin Taupau's Instagram account, with Parish and captain Junior Paulo also addressing the team as players danced, sung and prayed. Paulo spoke after the deputy prime minister and said their achievement would be felt by Samoans everywhere.

“I don't know if I have the words to describe how much it means,” Paulo said. “We're all here because of the blessings and prayers that are going on around the world — Australia, Brisbane, you can name every city around the world. Every single Samoan around the world is going to be proud of what we achieved.

“It was always going to be tough when a lot of critics were against us but we always said the only thing that matters is the people in this room.” ■