RWC 2015 Preview Magazine Special Edition | Page 34

Tonga

Nickname: The Sea Eagles
World Cup appearances: 6
World Cup best finish:
First round

In all fairness, the Tonga team
is ageing. Although they are
regarded as minnows, Tonga
has a tendency of springing
one or two surprises on major
tournaments.
This can be traced back to
the 2011 World Cup where they
claimed a slender victory over the
eventual finalists France. That in
a way sparked epic celebrations
and sheer exhilaration.
Their make or break game
will undoubtedly be against
the Pumas but owing to their
inconsistencies one will be well
within their rights to cast out any
aspersions in downplaying their
chances for a quarter-final spot.

RWC 2015 Fixtures:
19 Sept

V

29 Sept

V

04 Oct

V

09 Oct

V

Coach: Mana Otai
Captain: Nili Latu
Union: Rugby Oceania

World Cup Squad: Nili Latu
(c), Tevita Mailau, Alisona
Taumalolo, Soane Tonga’uiha,
Halani Aulika, Sila Puafisi,
Elvis Taione, Paula Ngauamo,
Aleki Lutui, Lua Lokotui,
Joe Tuineau, Steve Mafi,
Opeti Fonua, Hale T-Pole,
Jack Ram, ViliamiMa’afu,
Sione Kalamafoni, Sonatane
Takulua, Samisoni Fisilau,
Sosefo Ma’ake, Kurt Morath,
Latiume Fosita, Sione Piukala,
Siale Piatau, Viliami Tahitu’a,
Fetu’u Vainikolo, Telusa
Veainu, Tevita Halaifonua,
William Helu, Vungakoto Lilo,
Uili Kolo’ofai.
Ever improving: Tonga
will be hoping to builld
on their ever-improving
form in big tournament at
this year’s showpiece in
England. However, their
inconsistency might be a
barrier.

34 RWC 2015 Preview Magazine