Tonga’s headcoach Mana ‘Otai has named the ‘Ikale Tahi squad to meet the USA Eagles at BMO Field in Toronto this weekend.
A statement from Tonga Rugby Union said: “Soane Tonga’uiha comes into the side for Tevita Mailau, and Viliami Fihaki will start in place of Viliami Ma’afu, off due to a shoulder injury.
“Other changes see Steve Mafi taking over the reins from Nili Latu for this match and moving to the blindside. Uili Kolo’ofa’i is starting at lock, with Hale T-Pole starting from the bench this week.
Kurt Morath maintains kicking duties after a solid performance against Canada, and Otulea Katoa will start ahead of Vunga Lilo”.
The full team is:
1.Loose Head – Soane Tonga‘uiha
2.Hooker – Elvis Taione
3.Tighthead – Halani Aulika
4.Lock – Uili Kolo‘ofa‘i
5.Lock – Joe Tuineau
6.Blindside – Steve Mafi (Kapiteni)
7.Openside – Jack Ram
8.No.8 – Viliami Fihaki
9.Scrum Half – Sonatane Takulua
10.Outside Half – Kurt Morath
11.Wing – Fetu‘u Vainikolo
12.Centre – ‘Alipate Fatafehi
13.Centre – Sione Piukala
14.Wing – Telusa Veainu
15.Fullback – ‘Otulea Katoa
Reserve:
16.Front Row – Sosefo Sakalia
17.Front Row – Alisona Taumalolo
18.Front Row – Sila Puafisi
19. Tukulua Lokotui
20.Hale T Pole
21.Sosefo Ma‘ake
22.Latiume Fosita
23.Vungakoto Lilo
