The Junior Manu Samoa and Moana Pasifika U20s went head-to-head in the first match, in what was a thrilling tit-for-tat contest. 

Both sides came out strong, with the Junior Manu Samoa charging over the line for the first try of the tournament.

The Moana Pasifika U20s bounced back with a try of their own, off a superb cross kick. By halftime, the score was levelled at 10 a piece.

Moana Pasifika made a statement in the second half, pushing the score to 24-10.

But Samoa weren’t fazed, starting their comeback with a try in the 67th minute, closing the gap 24-17 thanks to a sensational try from Christopher Afamasaga. 

With 12 minutes to go, some ill discipline from Moana Pasifika saw the Junior Manu Samoa take advantage with a successful penalty kick, closing the gap to just four points. 

Just when the momentum started to swing the way of Samoa, Moana Pasifika were rewarded for their patience and discipline late in the game. 

A penalty kick by Moana’s fly-half Tyler Pulini with six minutes to go made Samoa’s job tougher. 

Moana’s relentless defence right until the final whistle proved the difference, holding on for the win despite conceding penalties and a yellow card in the final minutes.  

The two sides now look ahead to Round Two, with a big opportunity looming for Samoa. 

The winner between them and Tonga in Saturday’s matchup will qualify for the World Rugby U20s Trophy in July in Scotland. It’s an opportunity Samoa has circled on their calendar.

With only a handful of training runs  under their belt, Moana Pasifika was pleased to put up a winning performance.

“I’m proud of the boys, we’ve only been together for two weeks, and to come against this side is a blessing,” Moana Pasifika Captain John Samielu said.

“Big ups to the Samoan team, it’s not everyday you get to go up against an International squad.”

(Information sourced by: Oceanic Rugby)