Source:RNZ

Tonga has defeated Canada 28-3 in the first of two test matches at Te’ufaiva Stadium in Nuku’alofa on Thursday afternoon after having had to play large parts of the match with 14-men due to a yellow card to flanker Solomone Funaki in the first half and a red to former All Black centre Goerge Moala.

The ‘Ikale Tahi outscored their visitors four tries to none, with number eight Sione Vailanu claiming two while hooker Samiuela Moli and halfback and captain Sonatane Takulua adding one each.

The hosts scored three tries in the first half to lead 21-3 at halftime and scored their fourth in the second half and deny the Canadians any try in front of 6,000 local fans.

Skipper Takulua, playing his 51st Test for the men in red, led the rampage early, getting on the scoresheet himself after he received a well-timed pass from winger Fine Inisi Junior to run in untouched under the crossbar.

He also amassed a personal tally of 13 points in the clash and recorded a 100 percent conversation rate with his boots.

The win was what head coach Toutai Kefu was hoping for to restore confidence in the team amongst local fans, following the win-less Pacific Nations Cup series against Fiji, Japan and Samoa.