Editor

I would like to congratulate the 'Ikale Tahi coaching staff and the whole squad of players for giving us the best ever match we have played against the All Blacks. I salute Captain Finau Maka for the passion, discipline and leadership in stamping our claim for the right to be a tier one rugby nation at Eden Park. I, and perhaps all of Tonga, hope for a hasty recovery.

The All Blacks played like a champion, feeling out where their strength lies in the field. Our wings were clipped a number of times, but the fact that you refuse to fall earns you the right to battle another day. The might of the Sea Eagle will improve with more games played.

You have proved that you can face any forward pack in the world, Canada and France included. But our backline has to fix the attack and defense strategy ASAP or it will tire out our forward quite quickly. Remember that France is classically a backline attacking team, the best in the world.

Drop these teams into your ocean and see if they can swim.

'Ofa atu,
Inoke Fotu Huakau
inoke [at] 2000fm [dot] com