Photos by Tupou Vaipulu Jr.

The ‘Ikale Tahi pulled a decisive win 28 - 3 over Canada despite a red card, which left them one man down in the second-half, in the first of their two test matches, this afternoon at Teufaiva Stadium in Nuku'alofa.

Three tries in the first-half from Samuela Moli, Sonatane Takulua and Sione Vailanu gave Tonga a strong lead at halftime 21 – 3. Canada scoring from a penalty.

The game became difficult for Tonga after former All Black George Moala was red carded for a reckless tackle in the 45^th minute. Despite Canada having a one advantage, Sione Vailanu scooped up his second try – the only one of the second half.

A second match will be played next Tuesday, 15 August.

Hon. Lupepau’u Tuita and the Prime Minister Hon. Hu’akavameiliku greeted both teams before the game.

Teams

TONGA (‘Ikale Tahi)

1. Tau Koloamatangi, 2. Sam Moli, 3. David Lolohea, 4. Steve Mafi, 5. Tanginoa Halaifonua, 6. Solomone Funaki, 7. Sione Havili, 8. Sione Vailanu, 9. Tane Takulua (c), 10. Patrick Pellegrini, 11. Fine Inisi, 12. George Moala, 13. Malakai Fekitoa, 14. Kyren Taumoefolau, 15. Afusipa Taumoepeau (43 mins) 16. Paula Ngauamo, 17. Fe’ao Fotu’aika (43 mins), 18. Ben Tameifuna HT, 19. Vaea Fitita (68 mins), 20. Lopeti Timani (54 mins), 22. Otumaka Mausia (68 mins), 23. Solomone Kata (63 mins). Reserve: 21 Johnny Ika.

CANADA

1. Liam Murray, 2. Andrew Quattrin, 3. Conor Young, 4. Izzak Kelly, 5.Conor Keys, 6. Mason Flesch 7. Lucas Rumball 8. Siaki Vikilani. Backs 9. Ross Braude 10. Robbie Povey 11. Isaac Olson 12. Spencer Jones 13. Ben Lesage  14. Kainoa Lloyd 15. Peter Nelson. Reserves 16. Foster Dewitt 17. Djustice Sears-Duru 18. Cole Keith 19. Piers Von Dadelszen 20. Sion Parry 21. Travis Larsen 22. Jason Higgins 23. Mitch Richardson

MATCH OFFICIALS Referee: Jordan Way (Australia) Assistants: James Doleman (New Zealand) and Tevita Rokovereni (Fiji)