Moana Pasifika’s Fans’ Player of 2024, Fine Inisi has been named to make his first appearance of the year off the bench, when the team faces the Waratahs at North Harbour Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
A few other changes to the squad include speedster Kyren Taumoefolau making his return to the right wing. Joining him in the midfield are fierce duo Lalomilo Lalomilo and Danny Toala who was dominant against the Crusaders last week, recording a try, 47 metres, 9 carries and winning a turnover in a forty minute performance.
The loose forward trio has shuffled with Semisi Paea moving to the blindside and Ardie Savea going to openside flanker, making room for competition carries leader Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa who will start at the back of the scrum.
Former Waratahs squad member Ola Tauelangi will also bring impact off the bench.
Moana Pasifika captain Ardie Savea said: “The job is not done, we’re hungry for more. We know the Waratahs will come out strong like we did last week. All we want is a performance that we are proud of as a team.
“There’s still plenty of rugby to play and we’re focused on taking it one game at a time.”
Moana Pasifika has never won consecutive matches before, so will be looking to make history in front of their home crowd.
The family friendly kick off time of 2:05pm making for a great afternoon of rugby and entertainment for everyone to enjoy.
Unavailable due to injury: James Lay (elbow), Julian Savea (knee), Losi Filipo (shoulder), Lotu Inisi (hamstring), Michael Curry (shoulder), Miracle Faiilagi (hamstring), Pepesana Patafilo (concussion), Sione Havili Talitui (ankle), Tevita Ofa (hamstring), Neria Fomai (knee/out for season).
ENDS
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