Ieremia eyes ABS barometer

"We need to make a statement and find out where we are this year." Manu Samoa coach Alama Ieremia

Two years ago in Apia, Manu Samoa jumped all over a rusty and possibly distracted All Blacks side and gave them all they could handle en route to the most honourable of 25-16 defeats.

In the six meetings between the South Pacific sides since 1993, it remains easily the most competitive the island nation has been against the All Blacks who launched their World Cup buildup in the most uncertain manner.

Now, at Eden Park tomorrow, in a matchup featuring a similar backdrop (the All Blacks’ first outing of the year, and a certain matter of the British and Irish Lions looming just a week later), the Samoans are evoking memories of that first test by the New Zealanders in the islands, while at the same time pledging to create some new history.

‘‘We talked about the past and that particular game and the emotion that came with it,’’ said Manu Samoa head coach, and former All Black, Alama Ieremia yesterday after unveiling his team for the Pasifika Challenge doubleheader at Eden Park.

‘‘It was very heartening to see the reception we’ve had so far from the Samoan community here, and it reminded the boys about what it was like back in Samoa a couple of years ago when we played them.

‘‘But that was two years ago. We need to make a statement and find out where we are this year. It’s important we have a base mark

so we can move forward. They were fun times back then; but we need to make fun times for now.’’

Ieremia has named his strongest possible lineup to face the All Blacks and launch a campaign that will also take in a hitout against Wales in Apia and then the all-important World Cup qualifiers in the Pacific Nations Cup.

He’s down a couple of key backline men in skipper David Lemi and midfielder Rey Lee-lo, but has most of his heavy-hitters on board in a match-day 23 that includes 19 who ply their trade in the UK or Europe.

The backline looks particularly sharp, with new captain Kahn Fotuali’i at halfback, the vastly experienced Tusi Pisi at No 10, Alapati Leiua and debutant Kieron Fonotia (ex Tasman and Crusaders) in midfield, and a back three of Ah See Tuala, Tim Nanaiwilliams and Albert Nikora.

Faifili Levave and Jack Lam bring plenty of Kiwi rugby experience to the pack, while Census Johnston remains the cornerstone of their front row.

D’angelo Leuila, plucked out of Auckland club rugby (for Papatoetoe), will cover first fiveeighth on the bench.

‘‘We believe it’s a team that can challenge the All Blacks,’’ added Ieremia.