League and Union Notes

After being lambasted by a new look English side (39-13) this weekend, the Pacific Islanders coached by Quddus Fielea of Tonga, move on to face France on November 15. These Pacific Islanders were absolutely put on their hind quarters by England from the opening whistle and I'm hoping that they will approve against the French who are currently ranked 7th by the IRB.

On paper, this Pacific Islanders squad has the talent to beat any team on the planet. Unfortunately, just like their own home sides and any Barbarians side, its hard for a new team to mesh and conquer the big names in rugby in a two-three week span. I'm trying to be optimistic in saying that the boys and the management have learned their lessons in the build up to France but even hard-core lovers of PI rugby have a hard time staying on the bandwagon when the wheels aren't getting enough grease.

Pacific Islanders 2008
Kas Lealamanua, Kisi Pulu, Census Johnston, Justin Vaa, Sunia Koto, Aleki Lutui, Paino Hehea, Kele Leawere, Hale T Pole, Filipo Levi, Nili Latu, Semisi Naevo, Viliami Vaki, George Stowers, Sisa Koyamaibole, Finau Maka, Mosese Rauluni (C), Sililo Martens, Seremaia Bai, Pierre Hola, Vilimoni Delasau, Sailosi Tagicakibau, Seilala Mapusua, Seru Rabeni, Kameli Ratuvou, Epi Taione, Sereli Bobo, Gavin Williams

Speaking of optimism, Samoa ended their disappointing Rugby League World Cup campaign with a 42-10 win against France.

The only remaining PI team in the competition are Fiji Bati who will take on Ireland in a semi-final match.

And, the USA Eagles dominated Uruguay in a world cup qualifier in Salt Lake City yesterday.

USA Eagles 1. Mike MacDonald; 2. Mark Crick; 3. Matekitonga Moeakiola (Shawn Pittman); 4. Hayden Smith; 5. John VanderGiessen (Alec Parker); 6. Inaki Basauri (J.J. Gagiano); 7. Todd Clever; 8. Pat Quinn; 9. Mike Petri (Chad Erskine); 10. Mike Hercus (Valenese Malifa); 11. Gavin DeBartolo; 12. Junior Sifa (Salesi Sika); 13. Paul Emerick; 14. Takudzwa Ngwenya; 15. Chris Wyles (Saracens).