Moana Pasifika have named their team to play the Gallagher Chiefs in Round 9 of DHL Super Rugby Pacific. The teams will meet at FMG Stadium in Hamilton on Saturday at 4.35pm. Moana Pasifika is entering their 6th game in just 22 days which has seen Head Coach Aaron Mauger make several changes each match.
Manu Samoa midfielder Henry Taefu will captain the team for the first time from second five-eighth with experienced halfback Ereatara Enari named as vice-captain.
Chris Apoua gets his first start in the Moana Pasifika jersey and is joined by Ray Niuia and Ezekiel Lindenmuth in the front row. Veikoso Poloniati and Mahonri Ngakuru complete the engine room.
Exciting loose forward Niko Jones will debut at openside flanker and Michael Curry earns a start at six after scoring a try off the bench in Moana Pasifika’s loss to the Hurricanes. Sione Tu’ipulotu completes the forward pack at number eight.
Hawke’s Bay Magpies playmakers Ereatara Enari and Lincoln McClutchie will combine for the first time since the opening game against the Crusaders.
Henry Taefu and Solomone Kata combine in the midfield for a new combination in 12 and 13. Anzelo Tuitavuki and Timoci Tavatavanawai will play on the left and right wing respectively and William Havili returns to fullback.
There is plenty of firepower to come from the bench try scorers Alex McRobbie, Fine Inisi and Tomasi Alosio ready to provide impact.
Team to play Gallagher Chiefs
Saturday 16 April
Kick off 4.35pm
Unavailable due to injury: Joe ‘Apikotoa, Isi Tu’ungafasi, Lotu Inisi, Jack Lam, Sekope Kepu, Luteru Tolai, Mike McKee & Don Lolo
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