Head Coach of Manuma Samoa, Tupuivao Saumaniafaese Hanipale has named his playing squad for the first match against Fiji Warriors this weekend.
Veteran Joe Perez has been named captain from the wing while Gordon Langkilde playing at open side flanker, is the vice captain. Both players played Manu Samoa 7s under Gordon Tietjens and were selected for 7s but opted to pursue the 15s game.
Tupuivao has selected local veteran front rowers Jenny Taateo and Saini Iese to start while Lafaele Ikenasio starts ahead of Paul Faalogo.
Returning to Samoa from overseas to participate in the Manuma are several players including Apia Maroon’s lock Jonathan Toelupe and Moataa’s Louis Bartley Saena who will take up the role of first five-eighth.
Bartley-Saena is the youngest son of former Manu Samoa 7s and 15s fly half, Fainuulelei Filipo Saena.
Local veteran wing Tuna Tuitama will add experience while youngster Henry Lautaimi of BBE Vaiala will take up the scrumhalf duties.
Head Coach Tupuivao is assisted by former Manu Samoa lock, Mailo Potumoemateine Leavasa.
The first match against Fiji Warriors is this Saturday 27 August 2022 at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva Fiji
