Saints Snare 2
Samoan Union Internationals

Samoa internationals Maurie Fa'asavalu and Dom Feaunati have switched codes to league by signing for Super League side St Helens. The Pacific Islanders' arrival was hailed as a huge boost for the 13-man game.

"They are powerful and skilful - and will be tremendous for rugby league," said Saints coach Ian Millward.

Millward saw the pair during a talent-spotting trip to the World Cup in Australia.

Fa'asavalu, 23, was Samoa's top tackler at the tournament and will be slotted in at prop or second rower. Feaunati, 25, is a winger, whose cousin Isaac plays for union club Bath.

Feaunati had a spell with Stourbridge during a holiday in England two years ago and has long hoped to play league after watching former St Helens players, Fereti Tuilagi, Vila Matautia and Apollo Perelini.

"It's a dream to come true," said Feaunati.

"I'm following in the footsteps of Freddie, Vila and Apollo who I watched all the time.

"I had offers from other clubs. But when I was in New Zealand, Saints kept in touch with me all the time, asking me how I was, whereas the others just wanted my signature.

"This is a new family for me."

The newcomers are set to debut in Sunday's pre-season friendly at Barrow.