The Rocket Posted October 7, 2023 Share Posted October 7, 2023 18 hours ago, Damien said: It seems incredibly harsh that something at an amateur tournament would rule Addo-Carr out of internationals. Its ludicrous enough that club bans carry through to international competition without taking it to that level. No way mate, Holmes shouldn`t be anywhere near the team either. Given League`s image over here the last thing we need is players who exhibit the behaviour of those two being anywhere near the national team, out for the tournament I`d say. The Kangaroos haven`t had a front of shirt sponsor for quite a while and we finally get one and a multinational one at that, Gallaghers, so the last thing we won`t to do is embarass them by naming a couple of idiots who bring the game into disrepute. Don`t need it. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UTK Posted October 7, 2023 Share Posted October 7, 2023 10 minutes ago, Mojo said: I agree. He would've been the first halves name I would've had on the list if I was picking the samoan team. He's a legit 7 and he's the player of the future for the warriors after Sj leaves. Volkman and Luai are halves for the Samoan team for the next world cup Yeah 100%, a genuine halfback is going to be crucial moving forward - Asi and Oloapu definitely aren't in that category even though they're both decent players. Disappointing not to have Oloapu in the squad but overall a net positive outcome for Samoa I think. What are your thoughts on the predicament at 9? I rate GKCT highly but it's a really tough ask for him to do such big minutes at International level when he's only done small stints in first-grade and doesn't play 80 at Cup level either. I know Matamua has done very small stints there for the Tigers this season but is definitely not a natural 9 though will probably be required to spell GKCT in this series simply because I don't think anyone else can. Also, who's your fullback - Critta or Fa'alogo? It'd be a bit of a risky decision but I'd be very tempted to start Su'a and keep Critta in the centres, Su'a could be Samoa's 10-year fullback and is a specialist in the position while Critta has probably been the best centre in the NRL this season. I would totally understand going Critta though because then you don't have to leave out one of Marzhew/Tuilagi. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mojo Posted October 7, 2023 Share Posted October 7, 2023 12 minutes ago, UTK said: Yeah 100%, a genuine halfback is going to be crucial moving forward - Asi and Oloapu definitely aren't in that category even though they're both decent players. Disappointing not to have Oloapu in the squad but overall a net positive outcome for Samoa I think. What are your thoughts on the predicament at 9? I rate GKCT highly but it's a really tough ask for him to do such big minutes at International level when he's only done small stints in first-grade and doesn't play 80 at Cup level either. I know Matamua has done very small stints there for the Tigers this season but is definitely not a natural 9 though will probably be required to spell GKCT in this series simply because I don't think anyone else can. Also, who's your fullback - Critta or Fa'alogo? It'd be a bit of a risky decision but I'd be very tempted to start Su'a and keep Critta in the centres, Su'a could be Samoa's 10-year fullback and is a specialist in the position while Critta has probably been the best centre in the NRL this season. I would totally understand going Critta though because then you don't have to leave out one of Marzhew/Tuilagi. I have a feeling Volkman was always in the team because Gus confirmed that Oloapu was only in the team for experience only. I did not know Matamua can also play 9 so that explains why Danny Levi wasn't picked. From what I heard from the new coach is that he's using this tournament to prepare for next world cup and that means playing the younger players as soon as possible and getting the combinations right. GKCT is definitely the future for Toa Samoa and also for Manly. He's also got a underrated kicking game. And like Luai he brings a lot of energy into the team. I would start Sua Faalogo at fullback and leave Critchon at center. Sua Faalogo is a very confident player and he loves the challenge, and he wasn't shy one bit on his debut. Samoa would probably use him like Walsh and let him get involved at the right moment. I feel sorry for any defender that has to defend him one on one. But bringing him off the bench will also be a good move against tired defenders. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Damien Posted October 7, 2023 Share Posted October 7, 2023 2 hours ago, The Rocket said: No way mate, Holmes shouldn`t be anywhere near the team either. Given League`s image over here the last thing we need is players who exhibit the behaviour of those two being anywhere near the national team, out for the tournament I`d say. The Kangaroos haven`t had a front of shirt sponsor for quite a while and we finally get one and a multinational one at that, Gallaghers, so the last thing we won`t to do is embarass them by naming a couple of idiots who bring the game into disrepute. Don`t need it. I'm fine with players not being selected if they don't meet standards. That's up to the selectors and is the type of decision coaches and clubs make week in, week out and then choose to leave players out accordingly. That is a quite different thing to my point about bans not carrying over to the international game. This could have been a 2 match ban for anything. 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
StandOffHalf Posted October 7, 2023 Share Posted October 7, 2023 2 hours ago, The Rocket said: No way mate, Holmes shouldn`t be anywhere near the team either. Given League`s image over here the last thing we need is players who exhibit the behaviour of those two being anywhere near the national team, out for the tournament I`d say. The Kangaroos haven`t had a front of shirt sponsor for quite a while and we finally get one and a multinational one at that, Gallaghers, so the last thing we won`t to do is embarass them by naming a couple of idiots who bring the game into disrepute. Don`t need it. I saw the Addo-Carr footage. I honestly think it's being blown out of proportion and sensationalized. A bunch of guys milling around and it develops into a few jostles, with one or two half-hearted punches thrown - that missed from what I could make out. I feel a rebuke would have sufficed. A ban is harsh IMO. I actually also think Holmes being banned for a picture is pretty questionable as well. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
StandOffHalf Posted October 7, 2023 Share Posted October 7, 2023 My heart initially sank for Samoa when I heard Oloapu was out, but it's great that Volkman has come into the main side. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mojo Posted October 7, 2023 Share Posted October 7, 2023 2 hours ago, StandOffHalf said: My heart initially sank for Samoa when I heard Oloapu was out, but it's great that Volkman has come into the main side. Volkman is the better between the two tbh Oloapu is still young he's only 18 and he ain't fully developed. I would've had Schuster at five eighth with Volkman. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
StandOffHalf Posted October 7, 2023 Share Posted October 7, 2023 6 minutes ago, Mojo said: Volkman is the better between the two tbh Oloapu is still young he's only 18 and he ain't fully developed. I would've had Schuster at five eighth with Volkman. Schuster has had a pretty disappointing time after being bigged up. He does though have the ability to do magical things. Is he in the Samoa squad, or has he been left out? I don't remember seeing his name in it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mojo Posted October 7, 2023 Share Posted October 7, 2023 26 minutes ago, StandOffHalf said: Schuster has had a pretty disappointing time after being bigged up. He does though have the ability to do magical things. Is he in the Samoa squad, or has he been left out? I don't remember seeing his name in it. He's been left out. Yeah he's had a disappointing year that's for sure. But I think being around his culture and a bit of a positive vibe he would've played well or at least start to enjoy the game again. He's got potential bit he looked frustrated for most of the season 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UTK Posted October 9, 2023 Share Posted October 9, 2023 Kiwis 'A' squad: 1 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UTK Posted October 9, 2023 Share Posted October 9, 2023 (edited) Predicted side (those missing the 17 from Kiwis first-team will be included): 1. Keano Kini 2. Bailey Simonsson 3. Ali Leiataua 4. Rocco Berry 5. Will Warbrick 6. Taine Tuapiki 7. Zack Dockar-Clay 8. Wiremu Greig 9. Danny Levi 10. Naufahu Whyte 11. Kalani Going 12. Jack Howarth 13. Trey Mooney 14. Paul Roache 15. Pasami Saulo 16. Joe Chan 17. Ben Te Kura 18. Jacob Laban 19. Asu Kepaoa Edited October 9, 2023 by UTK 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mojo Posted October 9, 2023 Share Posted October 9, 2023 9 minutes ago, UTK said: Kiwis 'A' squad: Jack Howarth played Origin u20s last year. Is he committed to the Kiwis now? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UTK Posted October 9, 2023 Share Posted October 9, 2023 10 minutes ago, Mojo said: Jack Howarth played Origin u20s last year. Is he committed to the Kiwis now? Trey Mooney also played u19s Origin last year, not sure to be honest - maybe the Kiwis are attempting to use this as an incentive for those guys to commit. Would be interesting because Howarth in particular is one of the most hyped prospects in his age in Australia. Playing for the 'A' side doesn't commit them either way but you'd have to think they've either indicated they're committed or are attempting to convince them to. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bamboozle Posted October 9, 2023 Share Posted October 9, 2023 1 hour ago, Mojo said: Jack Howarth played Origin u20s last year. Is he committed to the Kiwis now? What’s his link with NZ? parents or grandparents born in NZ? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
StandOffHalf Posted October 9, 2023 Share Posted October 9, 2023 I wonder whether Kalani Going is related to Sid Going? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NRLandSL Posted October 9, 2023 Share Posted October 9, 2023 3 minutes ago, StandOffHalf said: I wonder whether Kalani Going is related to Sid Going? Yep, Great Uncle 1 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UTK Posted October 9, 2023 Share Posted October 9, 2023 Cook Islands finally announce their squad: Tevin Arona, Rhys Dakin, Esom Ioka, Kadiyae Ioka, Kayal Iro, Makahesi Makatoa, Justin Estall-Makirere, Steven Marsters, Esan Marsters, Alvin Maungaati, Davvy Moale, Takai Mokohar, Malachi Morgan, Rua Ngatikaura, Pride Pettersen-Robati, Lucky Pokipoki, Reuben Porter, William Samuel, Brad Takairangi, Zane Tetevano, Isaiah Cooper-Tetevano 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UTK Posted October 9, 2023 Share Posted October 9, 2023 Predicted: 1. Kayal Iro 2. Esom Ioka 3. Brad Takairangi 4. Steven Marsters 5. Malachi Morgan 6. Esan Marsters 7. Tevin Arona 8. Davvy Moale 9. Rua Ngatikaura 10. Makahesi Makatoa 11. Reuben Porter 12. Isaiah Cooper-Tetevano 13. Zane Tetevano 14. Takai Mokohar 15. William Samuel 16. Pride Petersen-Robati 17. Rhys Dakin 18. Alvin Maungaati 19. Lucky Pokipoki 20. Justin Estall-Makirere 21. Kadiyae Ioka 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Rocket Posted October 10, 2023 Share Posted October 10, 2023 20 hours ago, NRLandSL said: Yep, Great Uncle You don`t know what he was like, he could have been a rotten uncle. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UTK Posted October 10, 2023 Share Posted October 10, 2023 Team Lists for the first round of the Pacific Championships - Obviously there's been a couple of changes to the squads following initial announcements given some names missing/added here. Australia v Samoa: Australia 1. James Tedesco 2. Dylan Edwards 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow 5. Selwyn Cobbo 6. Cameron Munster 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Payne Haas 9. Ben Hunt 10. Tino Fa'asuamaleaui 11. Cameron Murray 12. Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo 14. Harry Grant 15. Lindsay Collins 16. Patrick Carrigan 17. Reuben Cotter 18. Nicho Hynes 19. Jake Trbojevic 20. Thomas Flegler 21. Valentine Holmes Samoa 1. Sualauvi Fa'alogo 2. Murray Taulagi 3. Izack Tago 4. Young Tonumaipea 5. Brian To'o 6. Stephen Crichton 7. Daejarn Asi 8. Stefano Utoikamanu 9. Gordon Chan Kum Tong 10. Junior Paulo 11. Luciano Leilua 12. Connelly Lemuelu 13. Keenan Palasia 14. Spencer Leniu 15. Terrell May 16. Heilum Luki 17. Ronald Volkman 18. Royce Hunt 19. Justin Matamua 20. Greg Marzhew 21. Tommy Talau PNG v Cook Islands PNG 1. Alex Johnston 2. Robert Derby 3. Zac Laybutt 4. Rodrick Tai 5. Nene MacDonald 6. Kyle Laybutt 7. Lachlan Lam 8. Epel Kapinias 9. Judah Rimbu 10. Valentine Richard 11. Jacob Alick 12. Dan Russell 13. Jack De Belin 14. Liam Horne 15. Nixon Putt 16. Junior Rop 17. Benji Kot 18. Cruise Ten 19. Rhys Martin 20. Wellington Albert 21. Justin Olam Cook Islands 1. Esom Ioka 2. Malachi Morgan 3. Kayal Iro 4. Esan Marsters 5. Steven Marsters 6. Brad Takairangi 7. Tevin Arona 8. Davvy Moale 9. Rua Ngatikaura 10. Makahesi Makatoa 11. Zane Tetevano 12. Reuben Porter 13. Pride Petterson-Robati 14. William Samuel 15. Rhys Dakin 16. Justin Makirere 17. Kadiyae Ioka 18. Takai Mokohar 19. Isaiah Cooper-Tetevano 20. Alvin Maungatti 21. Lucky Pokipoki 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mojo Posted October 10, 2023 Share Posted October 10, 2023 8 minutes ago, UTK said: Team Lists for the first round of the Pacific Championships - Obviously there's been a couple of changes to the squads following initial announcements given some names missing/added here. Australia v Samoa: Australia 1. James Tedesco 2. Dylan Edwards 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow 5. Selwyn Cobbo 6. Cameron Munster 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Payne Haas 9. Ben Hunt 10. Tino Fa'asuamaleaui 11. Cameron Murray 12. Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo 14. Harry Grant 15. Lindsay Collins 16. Patrick Carrigan 17. Reuben Cotter 18. Nicho Hynes 19. Jake Trbojevic 20. Thomas Flegler 21. Valentine Holmes Samoa 1. Sualauvi Fa'alogo 2. Murray Taulagi 3. Izack Tago 4. Young Tonumaipea 5. Brian To'o 6. Stephen Crichton 7. Daejarn Asi 8. Stefano Utoikamanu 9. Gordon Chan Kum Tong 10. Junior Paulo 11. Luciano Leilua 12. Connelly Lemuelu 13. Keenan Palasia 14. Spencer Leniu 15. Terrell May 16. Heilum Luki 17. Ronald Volkman 18. Royce Hunt 19. Justin Matamua 20. Greg Marzhew 21. Tommy Talau PNG v Cook Islands PNG 1. Alex Johnston 2. Robert Derby 3. Zac Laybutt 4. Rodrick Tai 5. Nene MacDonald 6. Kyle Laybutt 7. Lachlan Lam 8. Epel Kapinias 9. Judah Rimbu 10. Valentine Richard 11. Jacob Alick 12. Dan Russell 13. Jack De Belin 14. Liam Horne 15. Nixon Putt 16. Junior Rop 17. Benji Kot 18. Cruise Ten 19. Rhys Martin 20. Wellington Albert 21. Justin Olam Cook Islands 1. Esom Ioka 2. Malachi Morgan 3. Kayal Iro 4. Esan Marsters 5. Steven Marsters 6. Brad Takairangi 7. Tevin Arona 8. Davvy Moale 9. Rua Ngatikaura 10. Makahesi Makatoa 11. Zane Tetevano 12. Reuben Porter 13. Pride Petterson-Robati 14. William Samuel 15. Rhys Dakin 16. Justin Makirere 17. Kadiyae Ioka 18. Takai Mokohar 19. Isaiah Cooper-Tetevano 20. Alvin Maungatti 21. Lucky Pokipoki Samoa coming out with the surprise selection of the year at 6 lol 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
StandOffHalf Posted October 10, 2023 Share Posted October 10, 2023 I am not surprised at all to see a gun footballer like Crichton moved into a controlling halves position. I think I even touted it as a possibility, heehee... It could go beautifully or backfire horrendously. I think this Samoa team has a reasonable chance though! Rhyse Martin should be in the PNG team, if he's fit. He is a try-scoring second-rower who kicks goals from anywhere. Alick and Russell are both pretty good, but Martin is a bit better. Edwin Ipape is presumably not right to play? 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UTK Posted October 10, 2023 Share Posted October 10, 2023 28 minutes ago, StandOffHalf said: I am not surprised at all to see a gun footballer like Crichton moved into a controlling halves position. I think I even touted it as a possibility, heehee... It could go beautifully or backfire horrendously. I think this Samoa team has a reasonable chance though! Rhyse Martin should be in the PNG team, if he's fit. He is a try-scoring second-rower who kicks goals from anywhere. Alick and Russell are both pretty good, but Martin is a bit better. Edwin Ipape is presumably not right to play? Given Olam and Martin are both in the reserves I'm assuming they're using this game to give the second-string guys a run against what is perceived to be their weakest opposition. Not sure what's going on with Ipape. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
StandOffHalf Posted October 10, 2023 Share Posted October 10, 2023 1 minute ago, UTK said: Given Olam and Martin are both in the reserves I'm assuming they're using this game to give the second-string guys a run against what is perceived to be their weakest opposition. Not sure what's going on with Ipape. Ipape has had a few niggles with Leigh, so the rest will do him good. I hope he's OK to go for the other games. 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NRLandSL Posted October 10, 2023 Share Posted October 10, 2023 33 minutes ago, StandOffHalf said: Ipape has had a few niggles with Leigh, so the rest will do him good. I hope he's OK to go for the other games. So unfortunate, hopefully he's back for the Fiji game though. He's turned himself into of the best hookers in the world in the last year or two, such a talented player, both physically and technically. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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