'Ikale Tahi beats Manu Samoa 28–18 [1]
Sunday, June 17, 2018 - 13:44. Updated on Thursday, July 19, 2018 - 16:58.
The ‘Ikale Tahi scored three tries to defeat Manu Samoa 28 – 18 in Suva, Fiji on 16 June.
Despite conceding numerous penalties throughout the game, the ‘Ikale Tahi dominated possession and territory. Star halfback Sona Takulua converted all of Tonga’s penalties and missed only one conversion.
The ‘Ikale Tahi led 28 – 6 in the 60th minute but poor discipline in the final quarter of the game prevented the ‘Ikale Tahi from expanding their score line. Samoa scored two late consolation tries towards the end of the game.
The referee lost patience with persistent infringements from Tonga and yellow carded prop forward Sakalia in the 67th minute. In fulltime, the referee sent-off two more players hooker Paul Ngauamo and flanker Sitiveni Mafi.
‘Ikale Tahi winger Penikolo Latu scored perhaps the try of the tournament after he made a thumping tackle on the Samoan fullback, stole the ball and outran Samoan defenders to the tryline.
Tonga lead Samoa 17 – 6 at halftime thanks to tries scored by wingers Viliami Lolohea (6th minute) and Cooper Vuna (18th minute).
Following the 'Ikale Tahi - Manu Samoa game, Fiji defeated Georgia 37 – 15 to win the Pacific Nations Cup.