Samoa name squad for Northern tour

A45-man wider Manu Samoa squad has been named in preparation for the November Northern Hemisphere tour. Samoan head coach Namulauulu Alama Ieremia outlined the importance of selecting the right squad.

“It’s encouraging to see players performing consistently for their respective clubs in the UK and France,” he said.

“In saying that, some long term injuries plus the unavailability of certain key players has offered an opportunity to increase our depth for Manu Samoa. “We need to build on the momentum from the June test series- on and off the field. November test matches offer different challenges so we need to get the right balance between our up and coming youth with experienced campaigners in the Northern Hemisphere. “Fundamentally, we must continue the momentum to give us a chance at the World Cup qualification series in June 2017. “The final 32-member squad will be selected after viewing next week in New Zealand, Australia, Northern Hemisphere and Samoa A are currently in Uruguay, contesting the inaugural World Rugby America’s Pacific Challenge tournament”. Manu Samoa play France, Georgia and Canada in a three test match tour starting on November 12.

Forwards: Sakaria Taulafo, James Johnston, Census Johnston, Viliamu Afatia, Logovii Mulipola, Anthony Perenise, Hisa Sasagi, Matt Talaese, Eric Sione, Jake Grey, Nuuuli Lene, Elia Elia, Maatulimanu Leiataua, Seilala Lam, Wayne Ole, Teofilo Paulo, Faatiga Lemalu, Piula Faasalele, Jeff Lepa, Talaga Alofipo, Jack Lam, Tala James Ioane, Alafoti Faosiliva, Genesis Mamea, Gregory Foe, Faalemiga Selesele, Oneone Faafou, Backs: Pele Cowley, Dwayne Polataivao, Danny Tusitala, Kahn Fotualii, Auvasa Falealili, Tusiata Pisi, Patrick Faapale, D’Angelo Leuila, Reynold Lee-Lo, Winston Stanley, Paul Williams, Paul Perez, George Pisi, Ken Pisi, David Lemi, Ahsee Tuala, Albert Nikoro, Malu Falaniko. Samoa Observer