In a historic Super Rugby Pacific showdown in Samoa, Moana Pasifika suffered a 40-28 loss against the Queensland Reds in their inaugural home game at Apia Park on Friday.
The match was an enthralling spectacle, with a total of ten tries scored and both teams displaying immense intensity and skill in front of over 15,000 passionate home supporters. Despite their valiant efforts, Moana Pasifika couldn’t overcome the Reds, who snapped their three-game losing streak with the win.
Moana Pasifika coach Aaron Mauger remained positive despite the loss, expressing satisfaction with his team’s performance.
“They showed the fans that they can compete with the best,” Mauger said.
He also highlighted the unique experience of playing in Samoa, surrounded by their families and fans.
“We have cherished the experience of being here in Samoa,” he added.
Mauger acknowledged that although his team lost track of the game at times, they fought until the final whistle and showed resilience. With a bye week coming up, Moana Pasifika will regroup and prepare for their next match against the Rebels in two weeks.
Local star Miracle Faiilagi, who scored two tries for Moana Pasifika, described the experience as “awesome” despite the defeat, playing in front of his village and family members.
Moana Pasifika captain Solomone Funaki acknowledged that his team had created opportunities but made costly mistakes.
“It’s another learning experience for us. Congratulations to the Reds, and thanks to the boys for their efforts,” Funaki said.
The Reds, aware of the stakes with coach Brad Thorne’s job on the line, fought hard for the crucial win. Reds captain Tate McDermott praised Moana Pasifika for their talent and resilience.
“It was a tough match, and credit to Moana for never giving up,” McDermott said in a post-match interview. “We needed this win to boost morale, and I’m grateful that the boys hung on till the end.”
The game saw a seesaw battle, with the Reds taking an early lead through a try by Fraser McRight, followed by a swift response from Moana Pasifika’s Faiilagi, who scored their first-ever try in Samoa. The teams exchanged tries, with Matt Faessler and Danny Toala scoring for the Reds, and Harry Wilson adding another for Moana Pasifika. However, the Reds pulled ahead with Vunivalu intercepting a pass and running in for a try, giving them a 28-14 lead at halftime.
The second half saw the Reds extend their lead with tries from Faessler and Creighton, converting both for a 40-14 advantage. Moana Pasifika showed resilience with Faiilagi scoring his second try and D’Angelo Leuila adding points through his boots with a conversion. Luteru Tolai scored a late try for Moana Pasifika, bringing them closer at 29-40, but the Reds held on until the final whistle, thwarting Moana Pasifika’s last-ditch effort to score.
Despite the challenging humidity, both teams showed their mettle in an enthralling encounter, with the Reds emerging as victorious, showcasing their winning spirit.
Ref: Tora, I. (2023). Moana Pasifika lose battle in Apia against Reds. RNZ Pacific. https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/487969/moana-pasifika-lose-battle-in-apia-against-reds
