The Tongans are here to win the opening round of the 2016 Pacific Nations Cup and World Cup qualifier on Saturday.

The ‘Ikale Tahi’ play the Vodafone Flying Fijians at the ANZ Stadium at 3pm.

The team arrived last night and assistant coach Sateki Tuipulotu said they were ready for their test against the Fijians.

“We’re here to play not to make up the numbers,” he said.

“We’re looking forward to a good game although we only camp for two days.  We’re  just happy that we finally have the boys here.

“Preparations have been very tough in the last two days, but we just had to deal with what we have. Our aim is to do well and qualify for the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.”

Team captain Nili Latu echoed the same sentiments.

“We are really looking forward to the game on Saturday,”Latu said.

“We haven’t had much time preparing for this game and hopefully this week we will sort out our patterns against Fiji.

“I’m asking for support from all Fijians and Tongans to come down and watch test rugby on Saturday.”

Edited by Osea Bola

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