Moana Pasifika will tackle their first preseason game against the Gallagher Chiefs this Friday 10th February in an intimate setting.

Moana Pasifika will tackle their first preseason game against the Gallagher Chiefs this Friday 10th February in an intimate setting.

The game will be played at the Moana Pasifika training facilities at Mount Smart Stadium in front of Moana Pasifika Members & Sponsors. With standing-room only around the field, spectators will be incredibly close to the action.

The teams have agreed to a modified game format where the match will be played in four 20-minute quarters, allowing the respective coaching groups to trial various combinations with ample time.

Head Coach Aaron Mauger is excited with the opportunity to play a quality team in the Gallagher Chiefs in their first preseason game.

“This year, we have had the benefit of a full preseason block, uninterrupted like last season and for that we are very grateful. The team have been working incredibly hard over the summer and by keeping the majority of our squad together, we’re confident in the growing connections,” says Mauger.

“The first preseason game serves as an opportunity for players to put their best foot forward and we are looking to give everyone who is fit and able a run. We’re also giving our replacement players an opportunity to play in our first preseason game as we see them as an important part of our aiga.”

The first two teams to play the Gallagher Chiefs will be captained by Manu Samoa international Tomasi Alosio. The 31-year old is no stranger to leadership roles having captained the Manu Samoa 7’s team on the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series Circuit.

At the halfway point, Christian Leali’ifano will take the Captain’s arm band and lead the last two blocks of the preseason game. The former-Wallaby opted out of provincial rugby duties at the end of last year to focus on having his body right for the 2023 DHL Super Rugby Pacific Season.

With Sekope Kepu expected to make a midseason return, Leali’ifano will assume a vital leadership position this year.

In other player news, tighthead prop Isi Tu’ungafasi makes his much-anticipated return since missing the entire 2022 season after having to undergo neck surgery.

Samoan local Miracle Faiilagi will also get his first taste at the elite level, starting the first two blocks at blindside flanker.

This match is a closed event and only ticketed members will be granted entry.

Preseason Match 1

Moana Pasifika v Gallagher Chiefs

Mount Smart Stadium, Field 4

Kick off, 4:30pm

Unavailable due to injury: Tima Fainga’anuku (concussion), Mike McKee (shoulder), Alamanda Motuga (shoulder), Niko Jones (knee), Jonathan Taumateine (Hamstring), Lotu Inisi (ankle), Ray Niuia (neck), Henry Taefu (sick), Sekope Kepu (achilles), Jack Lam (ankle), Penitoa Finau (foot)