Tonga draws with Manu Samoa 18 all [1]
Monday, June 9, 2014 - 16:15
The ‘Ikale Tahi succeeded in disappointing a packed Apia Park Stadium after pulling off a draw against a highly favoured Manu Samoa in the opening match of the Pacific Nations Cup on Saturday June 7.
Both teams scored two tries and two penalty conversions a piece for a final score 18 - 18. Despite the draw, Samoa has been placed above Tonga in the Pacific Nations Cup table.
The ‘Ikale Tahi was leading at half time 10 – 5 after a try by winger Otulea Katoa. Samoa regained the lead in the second-half but a penalty conversion by Fangatapu Apikatoa in the dying minutes of the match, saved Tonga from defeat.
One of the impressive highlights of the game was a thumping tackle by full-back David Halaifonua on Samoan prop Sakaria Taulafo in the first half.
‘Ikale Tahi point scorers: Two tries by Otulea Katoa & Josh Afu. Two penalty conversions by Latiume Fosita and Fangatapu Apikatoa.
Manu Samoa point scorers: Two Tries by Fautua Otto & David lemi. Two penalty conversions by Tusi Pisi.