Tough challenge ahead for 'Ikale Tahi after 20-25 loss to Canada

Tough challenge ahead for 'Ikale Tahi after 20-25 loss to Canada [1]

Whangarei, New Zealand

Wednesday, September 14, 2011 - 23:59. Updated on Wednesday, September 11, 2013 - 09:54.

Photos by Pesi Fonua

Siale Piutau, scoring his first try for 'Ikale Tahi against Canada in Whangarei.

Tonga's hope of progressing beyond the pool games of the Rugby World Cup has become a tough challenge, after they lost to Canada 20-25 in their second outing, this evening, September 14, in Whangarei.

Tonga dominated the possession in both the first and the second halves, but Canada, however, led the score in the first half 10-7, and in the second half 25-20.

Siale Piutau crossing the try line for his first try.

Canada scored three tries to two tries by Tonga, and the failure of Kurt Morath to convert two penalties in the first half did not help.

Samiu Vahafolau, trying to get away.

Siale Piutau heading for his second try for 'Ikale Tahi.

Siale Piutau scoring his second try for 'Ikale Tahi against Canada.

For Tonga to proceed to the quarter final the 'Ikale Tahi must beat both Japan and France, so the next two games for Tonga will be their toughest of the tournament.

Despite the loss, Tongan fans are evidently still the most enthusiastic in this Rugby World Cup.

'Ikale Tahi fans in Whangarei.

Tongan brass band at the opening.

Tonga national anthem.

Sipi Tau.

Tonga national anthem.

'Ikale Tahi fans in Whangarei.

'Ikale Tahi fans from Tonga in Whangarei.

Streaker (later identified as Irish RWC visitor Connor Irwin (24), from Stranmillis, Belfast).