The Samoan internationals looked more like Batman villain Bane rather than rugby players as they stepped up their World Cup preparation ahead of their opener against the USA.

Samoa are known to be a very physical outfit but even by their standards the strenuous training session in Rome looked quite chilling.

Ahead of their Pool B opener on September 20, the squad were tested on various aspects of their game – with some players wearing training masks which are designed to increase breathing capacity.

The Oceanian side have failed to progress further than the pools in the previous three tournaments, but are confident that they can get off to a winning start in their first match.

The two sides last met back in July when Stephen Betham’s side held off a potential second half come back from the Eagles to win 21-16.

Alesana Tuilagi and Ahsee Tuala both scored tries that day, but for Samoa to be successful throughout the tournament, they will likely need to rely on their talisman Kahn Fotuali’i.

The agile scrum-half has expressed his exciting talent in recent years for Ospreys and Northampton. His team-mates will again look to the 33 year-old to be the catalyst to any potential Samoan success.

Despite their triumphs over USA and Canada, tougher opponents such as England and New Zealand have proved to be a step too far.

Samoa will have to be wary of potential winners South Africa in their second game as the Springboks try and recover form. Not forgetting their final tie against Scotland, which could be seen as the decider for second spot.

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