Editor,

With reference to your above article on the Matangitonga Online (June 6, update), may I correct the information published and your records on the Rugby Test matches results between these two great team, the New Zealand Maori Rugby team and Tonga National Rugby team ('Ikale Tahi Rugby team). The Tonga National team was named lately as the 'Ikale Tahi'. As far as I may recalled that most of the Rugby Test matches and results between the NZ Maori and the 'Ikale Tahi team were always a close game. Whether the Test game were played at Teufaiva Park in Tonga or here in New Zealand. The New Zealand Maori team never beat the 'Ikale Tahi team up to 1973 test match. I remember watching this one Test match at full packed Teufaiva Park and the 'Ikale Tahi team won the Test by 11 to 3. The young No. 7 Open side flanker, Fakahau Valu scored the only try and converted by Valita Ma'ake to lead 5 to nil, probably after 10 minutes from the begining of the game. I still remembered most or all the names of the 'Ikale Tahi team.

The Tonga National Rugby ('Ikale Tahi) team of 1973 was the greatest team of all. They won their game against the NZ Maori team, tour UK and Europe, won one of the two Test match against the Wallabies, and won one Test match against Fiji. Some older people and rugby players believed the 1959 team was the best. I disagree, it may be because I have not seen any of their game. The Ikale Tahi team of 1995 was a great team they won the only Test match against France at Teufaiva Park. However, the second best National team in my view is the 'Ikale Tahi team at the last 2007 World Cup.

However, we all pray, give our best wishes, and full support to the Captain, Nili Latu and his team, Coaching and supporting staff and management of the 'Ikale Tahi team. The love of the nation, our full support, and prayer are with you alwyas during the whole tournament and hope that the results will reflect your hard work.

Malo 'aupito,

Viliami Tiseli