Size does matter

There are more Samoan, Tongans and Fijians living in New Zealand than in their home islands — but that’s not what makes them dangerous.

WHEN Fiji thrashed fourth-ranked Argentina 28-9 in the inaugural Rugby World Cup it was a defining moment for all South Pacific teams. The result sent shock waves through the rugby world and Samoa, Fiji and Tonga have been demanding respect ever since.

In the 1987 tournament Fiji went on to qualify for the quarter-finals and they caused opponents — eventual finalists, France — some anxious moments before the French won 31-16.