Manusina XV marked the return to their first game on home soil after 15 years with a 20-17 win over Australia A on Monday at Apia Park.
It was a match where both teams matched each other equally. The home support had the Manusina fired up as they led 12-7 at one point in the first half. The teams went to the breather tied 12-12.
Australia A broke the deadlock in the second half with a try in the corner after keeping the pressure on the Manusina inside their 22.
But Manusina would not take it lying down. The team rallied on with pick-up and drives, and flowing the ball onto the wing. Manusina levelled the game.
The Apia heat was not easy on both teams but despite this, Manusina XV and Australia A tried their best.
The ball swapped possession as the tempo of the game picked up in the dying minutes. It was Manusina XV who were awarded a penalty from 40 metres out with seconds remaining.
Captain Pauraisa opted for goal and the rest was left to flyhalf Cassie Siatoga. The number 10’s kick had the distance and bounced on the bar as it raised the flags.
Jubilated, the Manusina bench ran onto the pitch celebrating the win.
Pauraisa in the post-match interview thanked all those who had turned up to support the team.
“Thank you to Australia. It was a great game. The win was not easy. I want to thank all the Manusina players, their families and the coaches who believed in us,” she said.
“We take this victory and look forward to the next step in our journey.”
Manusina will now look to qualify for the World Cup XV3 in Dubai.
