Moana Pasifika Head Coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga has made a number of changes to his side that will face the Gallagher Chiefs at FMG Stadium Waikato this Saturday.
15-test Tongan International, Otumaka Mausia is set to make his DHL Super Rugby Pacific and Moana Pasifika debut.
The quick and elusive utility back has made appearances for Auckland in NPC and also played for the Western Sydney Two Blues in the Australian domestic competition. His persistence and hard work has paid off as he now gets his shot at the top level.
Sekope Kepu is named as Captain for the match and links up with Donald Brighouse in the front row.
Ola Tauelangi, Irie Papuni, Semisi Paea and Melani Matavao all get their first starts. Meanwhile Niko Jones returns to the squad for the first time this year at flanker.
In the backline William Havili gets the nod to start at fly half. Viliami Fine is back on the left wing and Fine Inisi moves into centre. Meanwhile Kyren Taumoefolau earns a start at fullback.
Ready to bring impact off the bench is Suetena Asomua, Michael Curry, Miracle Faiilagi, Aisea Halo and D’Angelo Leuila.
With many players getting their first run of the season, it will be a chance to make their mark against a strong Gallagher Chiefs side who have won four of their first six games.
Moana Pasifika Head Coach Tana Umaga said: “This is a new opportunity for us to put our best foot forward and be better than we were last week.
“We’re building a resilient group and we know it won’t be easy, but we’re capable and now is our chance to give our best against the Chiefs.”
Unavailable due to injury: Alamanda Motuga, Anzelo Tuitavuki, Henry Taefu, James Lay, Jonathan Taumateine, Lalomilo Lalomilo, Neria Fomai, Ofa Tauatevalu, Samuel Slade, Solomone Funaki.
Next week Moana Pasifika host the Queensland Reds in Whangārei. Tickets available here: https://moanapasifika.flicket.co.nz/events/b673c39b-8826-4159-9486-20dfad254590/reservation
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