UPDATE 1 Manu Samoa Northern Hemisphere Tour Update David Lemi and Jack Lam as Manu Samoa Co-Captains By : Namulauulu Sami Leota : Team Manager The three days Reg 9 camp went well in London and the 30 man squad has moved to Italy in preparation for our first match on the 8th November 2014. Players were released after the camp to play their clubs games and it’s a blessing to have them all turned up after the weekend with no major injuries as has been our experienced in the past. However, prop Albert Anae was unable to join us this week as he is awaiting a judiciary hearing from a red card he received in his club’s weekend game. Census Johnston who was to come in to replace the injured James Johnston will only be able to join us next week in the Canadian match. With only three (3) props now at the camp, Albert Patrick Toetu who plays rugby in Bordeaux France has been called upon to join the team with Aniseko Sio (plays for Leicester England) been put on standby as the fifth prop in case there is an injury, and not to risk cancelling the test due to props shortages. Tournament rules require having at least five (5) props on tour. Apart from the above challenges, the players have been training well and there is a positive atmosphere in the team environment. The nine (9) new players have been integrated well into the team culture and spirit and are all looking forward for an opportunity to wear the blue jersey for Samoa. The three (3) test series ahead will be a real test for these players and as management we are all excited with this mix (old and new players) and how they will front up in this campaign. The team to play Italy is expected to be named this Thursday. Players are aware that while it is important to win test matches, one ultimate aim of this tour is to develop more depth into positions as this will be critical come the RWC next year. David Lemi and Jack Lam have been named as co-captains for this tour. We have been well looked after by the Italian Rugby Union since we arrived and the boys are coping well with the cold weather. We send our best regards and thanks to the people of Samoa and all our supporters around the world for your prayers and continued support. May we also acknowledge our sponsors Cromwell Property Group, Redefine, Mizuno and the Government of Samoa for all the financial assistance towards our campaign.
Posted on: Tue, 04 Nov 2014 22:32:16 +0000
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