Samoa too classy for Tonga in error-riddled entertainer

v BYE

Toa Samoa have proved too good for Mate Ma'a Tonga tonight, claiming victory in the Pacific Test 18-6 at Pirtek Stadium in front of a loud and vibrant 15,225 fans.

Arguably better than several NRL clashes this year, the yearly Tonga verses Samoa clash had it all. Despite a flurry of errors, you wouldn't have known - it was a free-flowing match full of energy and passion!

We were promised an emotionally thrilling game and this game did not disappoint straight from the kick off! Both sides brought the intensity of their pre-game war cries into the opening half of the clash at Pirtek with the forward packs of both sides laying the platform for attacking brilliance. Tonga would strike first, with a Tim Simona error off an awkward bomb seized by the men in red with Mosese Pangai crossing off a bomb.

Tonga continued to build momentum with their rampaging forward pack and speedy outside backs running ragged in the opening stanza, with Tonga yet again going close only a couple of minutes later, with an offside ruling saving Samoa. This decision would give Samoa a much needed leg up, with Antonio Winterstein crossing for a vital try after 15. Samoa would head into the sheds ruing a couple of missed opportunities, particularly in the 21^st minute when a pass from Sika Manu to his unmarked winger was never thrown.

From here, the game would continue to ascend into a pleasure to watch with both sides testing each other from all angles and sides of Pirtek Stadium, before a late scuffle saw emotions flare. A subsequent penalty would gift Samoa field possession and a penalty for offside with a minute on the clock would gift Samoa an 8-6 lead heading into the break.

The second half opened much like the first, with Kirisome Auva'a and Solomone Kata clashing again in a tense, free-flowing opening to the second 40. Tonga would force an early drop out and would place early pressure on the Samoa side, much like they did in the opening 40. Samoa, however, would celebrate like they had just won a grnad final as they force David Fusitua into touch. Yet Kirisome Auva'a would drop the ball off the scrum placing further pressure on his side. But, as expected, Tonga would yet again be unable to capitalise on good field possession with an error relieving pressure from the Samoan side.

Incredibly, by the 50th minute, Tonga had only completed 13 of 25, with Samoa's no better at 11 from 22. Yet, the game continued to deliver in entertainment factor. Samoa, despite having to defend their line for the majority of the opening stages of the 2^nd half would be next to score with a barnstorming try to Shark Ricky Leutele. Samoa would continue to threaten but poor execution would keep Tonga in the game. A simple try to Matthew Wright in the corner would catch out lazy Tongan defenders and seal the victory and you could tell that it certainly meant something!

Both sides would complete at 57% by the siren, but it was certainly an enterprising game to watch and a passionate one at that. You can only imagine the passion will continue for Samoa when they head home to host Fiji in October!