The ‘Ikale Tahi narrowly lost to the Barbarians 27 – 24 in Limerick, Ireland on 11 November, during their Rugb Union European tour.

The ‘Ikale Tahi scored two tries in 11 minutes, the first by fullback ‘Atieli Pakalani who scored from a ruck in the corner. The second was followed by winger Tevita Taufu’i who also scored from a ruck in the corner. The Barbarians responded quickly with two long distance tries by their winger Taqele Naiyaravoro and fullback George Bridge. A converted penalty put the Barbarians ahead at halftime 15 – 14.

In the second-half, utility back Sione Vailanu scored yet another try from a ruck in the corner to put Tonga ahead 19 – 15. The Barbarians struck back with two tries within the final ten minutes, the first by Jordi Murpy from a lineout near the Tongan try line and the second by Andy Ellis from a maul.

Tonga had the last say in the dying minutes with a try by Sione Vailanu, the final score 27 – 24.