The ‘Ikale Tahi have defeated Italy 19 – 17 after a successful extra-time penalty conversion by Sonatane Takulua snatched a sure victory from the Italians. The loss is a huge anti-climax for Italy who only last week defeated South Africa 20 - 18.

For Tonga the win wraps up a successful European tour, winning all of their three fixtures with Spain, USA and Italy.

The game was a thrilling encounter with the lead being switched three times throughout the match. The Italians were the first to draw blood in the 12^th minute after their prop forward Lorenzo Cittadini made a break from a lineout and crashed over for a try in the far corner.

 Sonatane Takulua converted a penalty goal in the 32^nd minute, Italy leading 7 – 3 at half-time. Sonatane successfully converted another penalty in the 45^th minute. Siale Piutau scored a try in the corner thanks to an offload by flanker Jack Ram, Tonga leading 13 – 7 in 53^rd minute.

Italy hit back immediately with a try only a minute after the kick-off.  The try was scored from a kick 'n chase by their winger Tommaso Allan. Italy regaining the lead 14 – 13 in the 54^th minute.

Sonatane Takulua almost scored a try after making a burst from a ruck 30 metres out from the try line. He was stopped short but forced a penalty. The penalty converted, Tonga led 16 – 14 in the 72^nd minute. 

Italy regained the lead with a penalty conversion in the 77^nd minute, and were leading 17 – 16. The game seemed to be over with the local crowds chanting “Italia!”. The Sea Eagles had other ideas and forced a penalty in the dying seconds of the game. Sonatane Takulua converted the penalty from almost 40 metres out to win the game for Tonga 19 – 17.

The game took place yesterday 26 November in the city of Padua, Italy.

Successful tour

Team manager, Lano Fonua told Matangi Tonga, this morning "All the hard work paid off!".