Apia Park, July 13, 2024 – In a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Manu Samoa narrowly defeated Spain with a final score of 34-30. The game, marked by heavy rain and muddy conditions, was a true test of adaptability and resilience for both teams.
Fierce Start and Steady Response
Samoa came out strong, reminiscent of a dog off a leash, dominating the early minutes of the game. Owen Niue's try in the second minute, set up by D'Angelo Leuila, gave Samoa an early lead. This was quickly followed by another try from Duncan Paia'aua, again converted by Leuila, establishing a solid foothold for the home team.
Spain, however, displayed remarkable composure. Despite the aggressive start by Samoa, Spain kept their cool, with Alejandro Alonso and Alvaro Garcia scoring crucial tries, both converted by Gonzalo Vinuesa. Vinuesa’s accurate penalty kicks further tightened the scoreline, keeping Spain in the game.
Weather Impact
The game was heavily influenced by the weather, with continuous rain turning the field into a muddy paddock. This significantly affected ball handling and movement, making it difficult for both teams to execute their game plans. Forced errors and missed opportunities were frequent, highlighting the challenge of playing under such conditions.
Last 10 Minutes: A Battle for Possession
As the match entered its final 10 minutes, it was literally anyone's game. Both teams fought fiercely for possession, knowing that holding onto the ball would likely determine the winner. Samoa’s Nigel Ah Wong scored a pivotal try in the 78th minute, converted by Leuila, pushing Samoa ahead. Despite a late try by Spain’s Alvaro Garcia, converted by Vinuesa, Samoa managed to hold on to their narrow lead until the final whistle.
Coaches' and Captains' Comments
Coach Mase's Reflections: In a post-match interview, Coach Mase Mahonri Schwalger acknowledged the significant impact of the weather on the game. He praised both teams for their adaptability and resilience. "It wasn't the performance we had prepared for this week, but the rain had a big impact on today's outcome," he said. Mase expressed his pride in the team, particularly in how they adapted to the challenging conditions and secured the win. Reflecting on the recent victories, Mase emphasised the importance of preparation for the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup (PNC). "We're not preparing for a 100-meter race; we're preparing for a marathon," he said, highlighting the team's long-term strategy and endurance. He also deflected personal praise, stating, "It's not about me; it's about these boys."
Spain Coach and Captain's Comments: Spain's coach, Pablo Bouza, thanked Samoa for the hard-fought game and acknowledged the challenges his team faced. "We adapted well under heavy rain and came close to creating an upset," he said. Bouza also noted the team's resilience, having come off a long connecting flight from Spain and having to play Samoa within two days. The Spain captain echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude towards Manu Samoa and the people of Samoa. "We had nothing to lose and gave it our all. Thank you to Manu Samoa for the great game and the wonderful hospitality," he remarked. He further acknowledged, "Samoa is one of the top teams in the world, and playing against them was a valuable experience for us." Spain now heads to Tonga for their match against Ikale Tahi, looking to build on their performance.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, Samoa builds momentum as they prepare for the PNC, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure and adapt to adverse conditions. The win against Spain, following a previous win against Italy, sets a positive tone for the team’s future matches.
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