By Finau Fonua

A heavy ‘warm up’ game is expected by both the ‘Ikale Tahi and Flying Fijians at Eden Park stadium in Auckland, ahead of the 2019 Rugby World Cup next month. 

Fiji coach John McKee stated this week that he expected a physical contest and that his players were preparing to “stand-up” against an aggressive Tongan side.

“We won’t disappoint them”, said Toutai Kefu on Thursday.

“That’s the natural way we play. We'll be physical and we will be direct. We'll play to the best of our abilities".

The Pacific clash precedes the ‘Ikale Tahi’s date with the All Blacks next week. A win against Fiji would not only instil greater Tongan fan confidence in competing against the All Blacks but would also instil confidence in the ‘Ikale Tahi’s prospects at the Rugby World Cup where they face “the pool of death” with the likes of England, France and Argentina.

'Ikale Tahi team 

1. Siegfried Fisi'ihoi
2. Paula Ngaumo
3. Siua Halanukonuka
4. Sam Lousi
5. Leva Fifita
6. Steve Mafi
7. Fotu Lokotui
8. Maama Vaipulu
9. Sona Takulua
10. James Faiva
11. Viliami Lolohea
12. Cooper Vuna
13. Siale Piutau
14. 'Atieli Pakalani
15. David Halaifonua
16. Sosefo Sakalia
17. Leva Fifita
18. Ma’afu Fia
19. Zane Kapeli
20. Sione Kalamafoni
21. Leon Fukofuka
22. Kurt Morath
23. Mali Higano