Samoans pack punch to hurt heavyweights

SAMOA, marshalled by dynamic Crusader’s half-back Kahn Fotuali’i, is a world-class unit that combines the qualities of raw power and unbridled flare that has characterised Pacific rugby for decades.

They are arguably the most dangerous underdog at the World Cup — because now they have added maturity, accuracy and composure to the mix.

Samoa’s squad harbours potent firepower, including winger Alesana Tuilagi, who steamrolled a quality Wallaby opposition including dynamite Digby Ioane of the Reds.

Head coach Fuimaono Titimaea Tafua has done a sterling job in uniting his team of overseas-based players.

One can only imagine the threat Samoa would pose if they could also call upon players of Samoan stock who have already been capped for other nations.

Hailing from the western-most parts of the Samoan Islands, they look poised to inflict some serious damage in their pool and into the final rounds en route to their desired destination at Eden Park.

Notably, 30 minutes south of the Rugby World Cup headquarters is the de facto heart of the Pacific nations, which is Otara and the surrounding suburbs of South Auckland.

This means the players will be as comfortable in this setting as they would on the streets of Apia, thus eliminating any geographical trepidation. It is a competitive edge against foes travelling from the other side of the globe.

Samoa is housed in Rugby World Cup’s Pool D and open their campaign against Namibia on September 14 in Rotorua. They then face Wales, Fiji and South Africa.

Clearly, the lead contenders in this pool are defending champions South Africa.

However, based on present form, which includes two defeats against the Wallaby side Samoa beat, the Pacific warriors will be eyeing their first victory over the mighty Springboks in a rivalry that records six defeats from six matches.

Look then to Wales, a nation the Samoans have battled also on six previous occasions, for which they have secured three victories. A 50-50 split is incentive enough for the Pacific nation to go one-up on the Welsh. Fiji represent a genuine threat based on a history of fierce rivalry, that for Samoa, records 15 wins, 3 draws and 25 losses from 43 matches.

In saying that, momentum and focus are Samoa’s friends against a Fijian XV suffering political and economic upheaval.

Theoretically, should Samoa secure victory over the Springboks, they would finish on top of their pool and likely face Ireland in the quarter-final.

However, a second-placing in their pool would likely force a rematch against the Wallabies.

— Ian Grey