Tongan players make their mark at RWC [1]
Sunday, September 9, 2007 - 16:59. Updated on Friday, June 13, 2014 - 19:45.
The 'Ikale Tahi has yet to play its first game in the Rugby World Cup against the USA Eagles on Wednesday, September 12, but after round one, Tongan players who are playing for other countries have made their mark on the competition.
Wycliff Palu with an on the face push over of this Japanese player. The Wallabies gave the Cherry Blossoms a hiding 91-3. The other Tongan players in the Wallabies are George Smith No. 7, and Mark Gerrard No. 22. Gerrard, unfortunately, was injured during the game and it ended his participation in the World Cup competition. Tongans in the Japanese team were Nataniela 'Oto No. 12, Luatangi Samurai Vatuvei No. 5,
Matekitonga Moeakiola boosted the morale of the American Eagles with his crash-over try in the final minutes of their encounter with the English. The Eagles lost to England 28-10, but they definitely stunted the current rugby world champion. The other Tongan players who were in the American Eagles team for their opening game were Salesi Sika No. 14, Vahafolau 'Esikia No. 12 and Albert Tu'ipulotu No. 22.
All Black No. 14, Doug Howlett, of Tongan descent, scored three tries, which took him to the top of the all-time top try-scorers in All Blacks history, equalling the record held by Christian Cullen. The other Tongan in the All Blacks line-up was Sione Lauaki No. 20.