Pisi returns at flyhalf for Samoa
Samoa coach Titimaea Tafua has made three changes to his starting line-up for the World Cup Pool D clash with Pacific Islands rivals Fiji on Sunday.
Back comes flyhalf Tusi Pisi, who was knocked out in the first half of Samoa’s match against Namibia on September 14 and was a late withdrawal from the team that started against Wales.
The other changes are Taisina Tuifua, who reclaims the starting spot at blindside flank, and prop Census Johnston, who replaces Anthony Perenise, scorer of Samoa’s only try against Wales.
Hooker Mahonri Schwalger will captain Samoa for the third straight match.
Samoa: 15 Paul Williams, 14 Sailosi Tagicakibau, 13 George Pisi, 12 Seilala Mapusua, 11 Alesana Tuilagi, 10 Tusi Pisi, 9 Kahn Fotuali’i, 8 George Stowers, 7 Maurie Faasavalu, 6 Taiasina Tuifua, 5 Kane Thompson, 4 Daniel Leo, 3 Census Johnston, 2 Mahonri Schwalger (captain), 1 Sakaria Taulafo.
Replacements: 16 Ti’i Paulo, 17 Anthony Perenise, 18 Filipo Lavea Levi, 19 Manaia Salavea, 20 Jeremy Sua, 21 Eliota Fuimaono Sapolu, 22 James Sooialo.
Date: Sunday, September 25
Venue: Eden Park, Auckland
Kick-off: 15.00 (02.30 GMT)
Referee: Bryce Lawrence (New Zealand)
Assistant referees: George Clancy (Ireland), Stuart Terheege (England)
TMO: Graham Hughes (England)
AFP
