Need To Learn, Improve: Afeaki
The Tonga ‘Ikale Tahi team will use their Test clash against Georgia today as a build-up to the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.
The men from the Friendly Islands are in a tough Pool C with England, France, Argentina and United States.
Team manager Inoke Afeaki said five players Nasi Manu, Sione Fifita, David Feao, Viliami Lolohea and David Lolohea will make their Test debut at 1pm today.
Afeaki said the team adjusted well to the weather and are doing what they can do to prepare for the game.
“The first game against Georgia should be a learning experience for the team,” Afeaki said.
“This is a build-up to our campaign for the 2019 RWC.
“We need to groom our team to be more competitive and there are a lot of things that we want to do to lift our form.
“Fiji is setting the standard in the Pacific and it’s time for the rest of us to catch up.”
Former All Blacks centre Pita Alatini is the assistant coach and Tony Alatini is the assistant manager.
Tonga: 1.Siegfried Fisi’ihoi, 2.Paula Ngauamo, 3.David Lolohea, 4.Leva Fifita, 5.Joe Tu’ineau, 6 Dan Falefa, 7.Fotu Lokotui, 8.Nasi Manu, 9. Sonatane Takulua, 10.Kurt Morath, 11. Penikolo Latu, 12. Siale Piutau, 13. Nafi Tu’itavake, 14.David Halaifonua, 15.Sione Fifita, Sefo Sakalia.
Bench: 16 David Fe’ao, 17 Ben Tameifuna, 18. Valentino Mapapalangi, 19. Mike Faleafa, 20. 21 Suke Tu’umoto’oa, 22.Latiume Fosita, 23. Viliami Lolohea.
Edited by Leone Cabenatabua
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