‘Ikale Tahi overcome US Eagles 20 - 17 [1]
Monday, November 21, 2016 - 20:18. Updated on Sunday, December 4, 2016 - 11:41.
The ‘Ikale Tahi survived a spirited comeback to overcome the United States 20 – 17 in the Spanish city of San Sebastian on Saturday November 19.
The ‘Ikale Tahi scored two tries within the first 24 minutes of the game and were leading 14 - 3. The first try was scored by Telusa Veainu who side stepped three US players to score under the post. The second try was scored by Fetu’u Vainikolo thanks to a break and offload by Jack Ram. The drowning American Eagles managed fly out of the ‘Ikale Tahi’s grip, scoring a try before the end of the first-half to close the gap to 17 – 10.
The United States tied the game 17 – 17 after scoring a try in 52nd minute. Despite the spirited comeback, a converted penalty goal by Sonatane Takulua edged Tonga ahead to win the game 20 – 17.
The ‘Ikale Tahi will now travel to Italy to take on Italy’s “Azzurri” next weekend November 26. The confident Italians caused a big upset last weekend after beating South Africa 20 – 18.