The results were not in favour of our national rugby team participating in the World Rugby Pacific Challenge, as Japan XV defeated them 48-5 on the opening day.
This led to many Manumā fans flooding social media with complaints and negative posts about the Manumā players, pointing out the team’s poor performance.
Samoa Newshub sought a statement from Ivan Fepulea’i, the captain of Manuma Samoa, regarding his team’s mental state following the loss and the negative comments on social media. He said he is unbothered.
“As a captain, I am, of course, concerned about my team’s mental health. As a player, I do not take negative comments to heart; instead, I turn them into a challenge and aim to do better.
I humbly accept defeat, for it is all part of developing our character on our way to becoming future stars in this sport. However, that is no excuse for the mistakes we made on the field. We are working hand in hand with the boys to make our people proud.”
Japan was just pure class, but it did not stop our boys from keeping their feet moving in front of the crowd.
Despite finishing on the losing side, good sportsmanship and mutual respect were portrayed through a handshake, hugs, and a heartfelt presentation of a small gift by the Captain of Japan XV to the Manumā Samoa Captain.
Ivan, on behalf of the Manumā team, thanked our people for their support and said they’ve got to take that loss, learn from it, and try to get better for Tonga on Monday evening.
Manumā Samoa needs our prayers and unwavering support.