Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air
In Front of a packed Teufaiva stadium in Nuku’alofa, ‘Ikale Tahi Tonga outclassed an experienced Australia A team 27 – 21.
From the get go, it was clear that ‘Ikale Tahi were the more clinical outfit on the pitch, dominating in every aspect of the match. Australia A on the other hand seemed to have forgotten their rugby boots in what was a disappointing first half for them.
Tonga opened the scoring in the third minute with the experienced Salesi Piutau scoring the first try of the match. The momentum carried on as rising Moana Pasifika outside back Fine Inisi scored under the posts off some brilliant work from the forwards.
With a 12-0 lead in their corner, Moana Pasifika skipper Solomone Funaki powered his way through for ‘Ikale Tahi’s third try. William Havili added the extra points stretching their lead to 19 – 0.
Nearing the end of the first half, Tonga crossed the line for the fourth time through captain and halfback Sonatane Takulua. The try, the result of some excellent footwork by former Wallaby Isileli Folau. Tonga in the lead 24 – 0 at halftime.
The second half saw some changes in the Australia A team. After a slow start, Australia A finally got on the scoreboard with speedster Corey Toole crossing over in the corner.
A second and third try followed for Australia A as they slimmed down the deficit to just three points to 24 – 21. As time ticked away in the second half, Tonga made some changes hoping to bring some impact off the bench.
Some ill discipline from Australia A led to flyhalf replacement Otumaka Mausia slotting in a penalty, the only points for Tonga in the second half. With the score at 27 – 21 and time running out, Tonga held on to close out the game for an amazing win in front of their home crowd.
The win is a good sign for Tonga as they head into their next pre World Cup fixtures.
The combination of the experienced former Wallabies and All Blacks players alongside the Moana Pasifika players probed a winning formula for the ‘Ikale Tahi.
