Samoa, the oval archipelago
Despite limited resources, these Pacific islanders count on their passion to play the spoilsports.
The Samoan archipelago is considered one of world rugby’s most fertile lands. The Umagas, Collins, Muliainas and company who are helping, or have helped, the All Blacks play such exciting rugby, could have defended the colours of their isle of origin. Despite the exodus of their brightest talents to neighbouring New Zealand, the Samoa XV manage still to shake the rugby hierarchy. In 1991, in their first World Cup, Western Samoa (who played as such until 1997) pulled off a coup in routing Wales 16-13 in their Arms Park haven to qualify for the quarter-finals. Wales suffered a similar fate at the hands of Samoa eight years later. That was the islanders’ last exploit. Powerful and unpredictable, the Samoans could yet spring a surprise in 2007.
Colours: |
Blue jersey, white shorts, blue socks |
National anthem: |
The Banner of Freedom |
IRB world ranking (2006/07): |
10th |
Rugby World Cup record: |
Quarter-finalists 1991, 1995 Eliminated pool stage 2003 Eliminated in quarter-final play-offs 1999 Did not compete 1987
Scored 425 points, conceded 426 |
Head coach: |
John Boe |
Squad Member List: |
Loki Chrichton, Census Johnston, Siuleo Frederik Lafaiali’i, David Lemi, Filipo Huntly Lavea Levi, Lolo Lui, Jerry Meafou, Justin Purdie, Eliota Sapolu Fuimaona, Elvis Sevealii, Steven So’oialo, Kane Gregory Thompson, Alesana Tuilagi, Ulia Ulia, Silao Vaisola Sefo, Lome Fa’atau, Donald Kerslake, Kas Lealamanua, Daniel Leo, Brian Pala Lima, Seilala Mapusua, Aukusitino Junior Poluleuligaga, Muliufi Salanoa, Mahonri Schwalger, Semop Sititi, Losefa Tekori, Henry Tuilagi, Anitelea Tuilagi, Justin Hugh Va’a, Gavin Williams |
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