2015 Pacific Nations Cup Preview

The Pacific Nations Cup returns for its 10th season, featuring six Tier 2 sides in four rounds of action over the space of just 16 days. Included are two triple-headers, one at BMO Field in Toronto on July 29, and the finals at Swangard Stadium in Burnaby on August 3.

Last year’s tournament was unofficially won by Japan, who defeated both Canada and the USA and were the only side to achieve victory in both matches. A final match between the second conference winners Samoa was ultimately not played, despite the IRB [aka World Rugby] claiming that it would be arranged following completion of the two-match opening round.

Thankfully this year’s version has been expanded almost to full strength, and each team will get valuable high level competition ahead of the World Cup warm-up matches that begin in late August. Given that each side is likely to experiment and rotate during the four matches, the title looks up for grabs for whoever can put together the most consistent performances.

 

All matches will be streamed live at worldrugby.org

 

FIXTURES

July 18 – Fiji v Tonga, ANZ National Stadium (15:00 Suva)
July 18 – Canada v Japan, Avaya Stadium (17:00 San Jose)
July 18 – USA v Samoa, Avaya Stadium (19:00 San Jose)

July 24 – Fiji v Samoa, Bonney Field (17:00 Sacramento)
July 24 – Canada v Tonga, Swangard Stadium (19:00 Burnaby)
July 24 – USA v Japan, Bonney Field (20:00 Sacramento)

July 29 – USA v Tonga, BMO Field (15:30 Toronto)
July 29 – Fiji v Japan, BMO Field (18:00 Toronto)
July 29 – Canada v Samoa, BMO Field (20:30 Toronto)

August 3 – 5th v 6th, Swangard Stadium (11:30 Burnaby)
August 3 – 3rd v 4th, Swangard Stadium (14:00 Burnaby)
August 3 – 1st v 2nd, Swangard Stadium (16:30 Burnaby)

 

 

CANADA

It’s hard to argue that Canada had anything other than a disappointing year in 2014. Just one win – a four point victory over Namibia – and five losses, plus another to an RFU Championship XV in a friendly, it doesn’t make for pretty reading. On the positive side, their greatest deficit was only 10 points to Samoa, so they were never really outclassed, just outplayed.

This looks an interesting group from Canada, approaching full strength but still edging a little on the experimental side. Adam Kleeberger has retired, while Jamie Cudmore, Jebb Sinclair, and Nanyak Dala are all out injured. Other France-based players Jason Marshall, Cameron Pierce, and Taylor Paris have all been left out of the PNC, presumably to return in August for the warm-up matches, and Jake Ilnicki will join the squad later from Australia. There is considerable competition for several spots, in both the forwards and the backs.

Three uncapped players have been included, all forwards, and all part of Canada’s Pacific Challenge side that toured Fiji in March. Second row Evan Olmstead, utility forward Callum Morrison, and back row Thyssen de Goede are all hoping to win senior honours.

Similar to their American cousins, Canada look their best when they move the ball through the hands and tire out defenses with phase play. With a number of successful sevens players in the side, there is no shortage of attacking skill, but defense has been a big question mark in the past year. Their set piece has also struggled to find a footing, and will need to be much improved to ensure quality first phase possession.

CAPTAIN: It’s been two years since Tyler Ardron was named captain of the side, and less since it was made permanent, and it’s fair to say that the no8 has grown in stature both figuratively and literally since then. The 24-year-old is now a physical force to be reckoned with, and is regularly sharing the field with top professionals at Ospreys. Look for him to be at the forefront of most things good for Canada.

KEY PLAYERS: Loosehead prop Hubert Buydens has been an ever-present since breaking through in 2011. Hookers Ray Barkwill and former captain Aaron Carpenter are an important combination, especially with their carrying abilities. Scrumhalf Gordon McRorie is Canada’s best domestic-based player, despite being born in Scotland. Speaking of which, Connor Braid enjoyed a solid season with pro outfit Glasgow Warriors and will be expected to step into a leading role in the midfield. Star winger Jeff Hassler is back to full fitness and should be a major source of excitement and inspiration provided he gets the ball.

ONE TO WATCH: Another country with a flyhalf problem, with half a dozen trialled since the last World Cup, but Liam Underwood might finally be the one to lay a claim to the jersey. He certainly has all the skills, and might well have already made his mark had concussion problems not plagued him for several months. All concerned are desperately hoping he finally gets an injury-free run in the red and white jersey.

HEAD COACH: Now in his 8th year with the team, Kieran Crowley has coached many of these players for their entire international careers. While in some respects that is a good thing, it has undoubtedly affected his selections and he will have some tough decisions to make in the near future. How he manages those will likely define the most important season of his tenure.

*squad according to World Rugby*

FORWARDS: Hubert Buydens (Castaway Wanderers), Djustice Sears-Duru (Crusaders), Andrew Tiedemann (Plymouth Albion), Doug Wooldridge (Lindsay), Ray Barkwill (Castaway Wanderers), Aaron Carpenter (Cornish Pirates), Benoît Pifféro (Blagnac), Brett Beukeboom (Plymouth Albion), Tyler Hotson (Doncaster), Evan Olmstead (Parramatta), Jon Phelan (Doncaster), Tyler Ardron (capt., Ospreys), Thyssen de Goede (James Bay), Kyle Gilmour (St. Albert), John Moonlight (James Bay), Callum Morrison (UBCOB), Richard Thorpe (London Welsh)

BACKS: Phil Mack (James Bay), Gordon McRorie (Hornets), Nathan Hirayama (UVic), Harry Jones (Capilano), Liam Underwood (Balmy Beach), Nick Blevins (James Bay), Connor Braid (Glasgow), Ciaran Hearn (Castaway Wanderers), Conor Trainor (UBCOB), DTH van der Merwe (Glasgow), Jeff Hassler (Ospreys), Phil Mackenzie (Sale), Matt Evans (Cornish Pirates), James Pritchard (Bedford)

 

 

FIJI

Despite playing both matches on home soil last year, Fiji only managed one win, thumping Tonga but losing to Samoa. Before that they bested Italy in Suva, and throttled the Cook Islands to qualify for the World Cup just after the PNC. Their November tour had mixed results. They were overpowered by France in Marseille, but nearly overturned Wales in Cardiff and beat USA in Vannes. A week ago they nearly upset the Maori, losing by one point, also in Suva.

This year’s squad is at virtually full strength, with only Timoci Nagusa absent via injury, and such is the competition for spots the likes of Netani Talei, Seremaia Bai, and Napolioni Nalaga have been left out. Only two players are currently based in Fiji, both props, with the rest of the squad all playing professionally, and mostly in Europe. Joeli Veitayaki and Peceli Yato are the only uncapped players in the squad.

While in the past their Achilles heel has been the scrum, they have made massive strides in that department, though they remain questionable at defending the rolling maul. Their lineout has also struggled to find consistency despite having excellent lineout targets. Their ability to create something out of nothing remains unmatched, and if the backs are given good front foot ball it is lights out more often than not.

CAPTAIN: The most capped player in the side and one of Fiji’s most celebrated forwards of the professional era, Akapusi Qera remains a first class player after a decade of test rugby. A bruising combatant capable of playing anywhere in the back row, he has added muscle as he has matured to counter the inevitable half-step of speed he has lost.

KEY PLAYERS: The man most responsible for the improvement of the scrum in recent years is tighthead Manasa Saulo, he’ll be critical once again. Leone Nakarawa is magic in the air and magic with his hands, a one-of-a-kind second row. Former captain Dominiko Waqaniburotu has size, athleticism, and a huge engine. Josh Matavesi can fill in at 10 or 12, and is a threat on the charge and with his passing game. Backs with the size and speed of Nemani Nadolo are as rare as they come, and he’s a pretty handy goal kicker too. Leicester favorite Vereniki Goneva will lead the backs and use his combination of strength and speed to devastating effect.

ONE TO WATCH: Flyhalf has been a problem since Nicky Little hung up the boots, and Fiji might at last have a solution. Ben Volavola hasn’t seen much game time at the Waratahs, but there’s no doubting his talent. He could add an extra dimension to the attack if he lives up to his potential.

HEAD COACH: Now in his second year as head coach, John McKee has added some real direction to the team that has been absent since Brad Johnstone left some 15 years ago. The Australian has had an interesting career, coaching in France, Ireland, England, and even spending some time as a technical advisor to Tonga.

*EDIT: Nemani Nadolo has withdrawn from the squad due to an abdominal injury, and will be replaced by Napolioni Nalaga. Nadolo is expected to return in late August.

FORWARDS: Isei Colati (Nevers), Taniela Koroi (Wellington), Campese Ma’afu (Nottingham), Peni Ravai (Nadroga), Manasa Saulo (Timisoara), Joeli Veitayaki (Naitasiri), Sunia Koto (Narbonne), Tale Tuapati (Stade Français), Vili Veikoso (Doncaster), Tevita Cavubati (Ospreys), Leone Nakarawa (Glasgow), Api Ratuniyarawa (Agen), Nemia Soqeta (Biarritz), Masi Matadigo (Lyon), Akapusi Qera (capt., Montpellier), Malakai Ravulo (Steaua), Dominiko Waqaniburotu (Brive), Peceli Yato (Clermont)

BACKS: Nemia Kenatale (Steaua), Niko Matawalu (Glasgow), Henry Seniloli (Benetton Treviso), Josh Matavesi (Ospreys), Ben Volavola (Waratahs), Levani Botia (La Rochelle), Vereniki Goneva (Leicester), Gabiriele Lovobalavu (Bayonne), Waisea Nayacalevu (Stade Français), Napolioni Nalaga (Clermont), Asaeli Tikoirotuma (Harlequins), Kini Murimurivalu (La Rochelle), Metuisela Talebula (Bordeaux)

 

 

JAPAN

Once pushovers, the Brave Blossoms have improved significantly, enjoying their greatest ever stretch in history, winning 14 out of their last 15 official tests, including 11 in a row at one point, albeit dropping a couple non-cap matches against the Maori last November. Even so, the second match was very nearly won by Japan, losing by a mere two points thanks to a last minute try that spared the Maori a famous defeat.

Japan will be close to full strength, missing Male Sa’u with a knee injury and Amanaki Mafi, working his way back from a dislocated hip. Shinya Makabe and Craig Wing will also stay behind for the time being, and returning Super Rugby trio Hendrik Tui, Keita Inagaki, and Fumiaki Tanaka may join up with the squad later in the tournament.

The set piece has become the team’s bread and butter, with specialist coaches Steve Borthwick and Marc Dal Maso working wonders with the lineout and scrum. Going forward it’s their multi-phase quick ruck game that breaks down defenses and opens holes for the gas men out wide to exploit. Defensively they are reasonably structured, but with a lack of physical bulk can run into problems against sides with powerful ball carriers.

CAPTAIN: An understated player who leads by example rather than by words, Michael Leitch finally got a shot at Super Rugby this season and took full advantage, winning ‘rookie of the year’, a somewhat odd award given his already extensive international CV. A handy player across the back row, it’s on the flank where he works best for Japan, supporting the flyers out wide and acting as an effective link option.

KEY PLAYERS: Back to fitness after missing the Super Rugby season, Shota Horie is consistently among Japan’s best up front. Tighthead prop Kensuke Hatakeyama isn’t far behind, proving a rock in the scrum and captaining the side when Leitch was away. With Mafi out, it will be veteran Koliniasi Holani who will need to carry the ball over the gainline. Similarly, with Tanaka rested, understudy Atsushi Hiwasa will need to provide snappy service for a dynamic backline. At the back, Ayumu Goromaru is the man with the golden boot, no more no less.

ONE TO WATCH: Another gaijin added to bolster the midfield, Tim Bennetts had originally moved to Asia on account of his Filipino mother, but it’s his adopted country who has snapped him up first. The former Australia u20 is an attacker full of enterprise who knows his way to the tryline, but has been challenged to tighten up his game in the harsher conditions of test rugby.

HEAD COACH: Eddie Jones is a character, of that there is no doubt. The former Wallaby head coach is now in his fourth year in charge of the Brave Blossoms, and continues to raise eyebrows with peculiar statements and sometimes oddball selections. His passion is there for all to see, however, and the results speak for themselves.

FORWARDS: Kensuke Hatakeyama (Suntory), Hisateru Hirashima (Kobe Steel), Shinnosuke Kakinaga (Suntory), Masataka Mikami (Toshiba), Hiroshi Yamashita (Kobe Steel), Shota Horie (Panasonic), Takeshi Kizu (Kobe Steel), Hiroki Yuhara (Toshiba), Shoji Ito (Kobe Steel), Hitoshi Ono (Toshiba), Luke Thompson (Kintetsu), Kazuhiko Usami (Canon), Michael Broadhurst (Ricoh), Koliniasi Holani (Panasonic), Hayden Hopgood (Kamaishi), Justin Ives (Canon), Michael Leitch (capt., Chiefs), Tsuyoshi Murata (NEC)

BACKS: Atsushi Hiwasa (Suntory), Keisuke Uchida (Panasonic), Kosei Ono (Suntory), Yu Tamura (NEC), Ryohei Yamanaka (Kobe Steel), Tim Bennetts (Canon), Karne Hesketh (Sanix), Harumichi Tatekawa (Kubota), Yoshikazu Fujita (Waseda), Kenki Fukuoka (Tsukuba), Toshiaki Hirose (Toshiba), Kotaro Matsushima (Suntory), Akihito Yamada (Panasonic), Ayumu Goromaru (Yamaha)

 

 

SAMOA

The Manu had a disappointing start to their PNC campaign last season as they drew with Tonga in Apia, but then redeemed themselves somewhat with wins over Italy and Fiji, with the latter securing their spot at the top of the Pacific Island conference, though ultimately they would finish second to Japan on overall points. Their November tour wasn’t great, with a lone win coming against Canada, but they had a very respectable performance against the All Blacks in Apia a week ago.

Samoa have opted to rest their big name players for the PNC, instead selecting a group that mixes experienced internationals with fringe players attempting to win a spot at the World Cup. Names like Jack Lam, Kahn Fotuali’i, and the Pisi brothers will be missed, but give other players an opportunity to put their hand up. Eight players in the group are locally based, with the rest spread all over the globe from Europe to Japan.

There are four uncapped players, led by Hurricanes hooker Motu Matu’u. Lanky flanker Francis Ieremia, giant no8 Vavae Tuilagi, and heavily built three quarter Faleniu Iosi are also new to test rugby.

Of all the Island nations, the Samoans are the most physical in the tackle, but can be caught out defensively as a result. They also tend to struggle against a good kicking game, though thankfully they won’t see much of that in the PNC. Going forward they are similarly direct, and use frightening power and strong offloading skills to blast their way to victory.

CAPTAIN: With new captain Ofisa Treviranus rested and David Lemi only just working his way back to fitness, it’s up to experienced prop Sakaria Taulafo to lead the side, having done so on one occasion before. Steady as he goes, the former Wasps loosehead now does his work in Paris, coming off the bench to help his team win the Top 14 title this season.

KEY PLAYERS: Providing a good deal of balast and a bit of mongrel, Filo Paulo always seems to play his best for the Manu. With four leading back rowers left out, Faifili Levave will be expected to provide leadership to go with his trademark physicality. Mike Stanley looks most likely to get the nod at flyhalf, he’s very talented but needs to prove he’s up for the big games. Sale Sharks stalwart Johnny Leota will be asked to shoulder a heavy load in the midfield. Speaking of heavy, Alesana Tuilagi is set on bulldozer mode on both sides of the ball.

ONE TO WATCH: A year ago Motu Matu’u was running around in an All Blacks training camp, albeit with a bad shoulder an unable to take part, but as that ship has sailed, he has opted for the land of his fathers. His crash-and-bash style mixes perfectly with the side, the question is whether he can get his set piece up to par as he makes the step up to international rugby.

HEAD COACH: After a hugely successful run as head coach of the 7s side, culminating in an HSBC World Series title in 2010, Stephen Betham was appointed as head coach of the Manu in 2012, where he has stayed since. Highly respected by the Samoan community, has lead the team to wins over Six Nations sides Wales, Scotland, and Italy in his time at the helm.

FORWARDS: Viliamu Afatia (Agen), Jake Grey (SCOPA), James Johnston (Saracens), Anthony Perenise (Bristol), Sakaria Taulafo (capt., Stade Français), Manu Leiataua (Aurillac), Motu Matu’u (Hurricanes), Andrew Williams (Marist St. Joseph’s), Fa’atiga Lemalu (Sanix), Maselino Paulino (Waikato), Filo Paulo (Cardiff Blues), Joe Tekori (Toulouse), Oneone Fa’afou (Vaiala), Francis Ieremia (Moata’a), T.J. Ioane (Sale), Faifili Levave (Toyota Verblitz), Vavae Tuilagi (Carcassonne)

BACKS: Vavao Afemai (Vaiala), Pele Cowley (Suburbs), Patrick Fa’apale (Vaiala), Mike Stanley (Ulster), Faialaga Afamasaga (SCOPA), Johnny Leota (Sale), Paul Perez (Natal), Alofa Alofa (La Rochelle), Faleniu Iosi (Moata’a), David Lemi (Bristol), Sinoti Sinoti (Newcastle), Alesana Tuilagi (Newcastle), Fa’atoina Autagavaia (Nevers), Ahsee Tuala (Northampton)

 

 

TONGA

The smallest of the three Island nations, Tonga have the least depth and seem to be constantly changing their team, with players opting to stay with their club sides or just sitting out. The lack of continuity means they inevitably struggle in between World Cups, but when all together they can trouble even the biggest sides, as France can well attest to. Last year they played only five tests, beating Georgia and USA, losing to Fiji and Scotland, and drawing with Samoa.

Tonga have been able to draw on a reasonable number of their pro players but are still absent a number of big names. Premiership exports Sione Kalamafoni, Tevita Halaifonua, and Viliami Helu are all missing, as well as a handful of French-based players who now look set to miss the World Cup. Hopefully a few of them will join up with the squad in August, but the PNC is looking as rosy as it should for the Ikale Tahi.

Seven uncapped players feature in the squad, including hookers Kalafi Pongi and Sefo Sakalia, flanker Jack Ram, scrumhalf Sefo Ma’ake, flyhalf Martin Naufahu, midfielder Viliami Tahitu’a, and winger Telusa Veainu.

At their best, Tonga play exciting, expansive rugby with big men moving at surprising speeds and not afraid to try something off the cuff. With a number of heavyweight props at their disposal the scrum is typically strong, but the set piece has suffered from a lack of familiarity in recent times. Defensively the are extremely physical and more likely to win a turnover via the tackle itself rather than attacking the breakdown.

CAPTAIN: Now entering the twilight of a tremendous career, Nili Latu remains the heartbeat of the Tongan side in his 10th year of international rugby. Having taken a few months off to rest his body, the all-action flanker should be firing on all cylinders as he begins the run-in to one last World Cup run.

KEY PLAYERS: The only hooker with any experience in the squad, Elvis Taione will be the man expected to keep the ship steady. At his best Steve Mafi is a dominant figure, but can sometimes be guilty of coasting. No so for Vili Ma’afu, who is always on his game and invariably one of Tonga’s best. Dynamic centre Sione Piukala is a threat to break the line every time he touches the ball. Sizeable fullback Vunga Lilo can score from anywhere – and often does.

ONE TO WATCH: Former New Zealand u20 star Telusa Veainu looked set for bigger things when he broke through with Canterbury, and has always looked impressive at provincial level, but can’t seem to buy opportunities in Super Rugby. Lacks a little in size but makes up for it with gas and classic finishing ability.

HEAD COACH: Former Auckland back row Mana Otai is now in his fourth year coaching the team he captained to the 1995 World Cup, but has not filled either role without controversy. Last year his contract was to be ended, only to be extended at the 11th hour under the proviso that Jake White would act as technical advisor for the November tour. White is no longer there, and it’s up to Otai to get the best of a side that could use more than a little inspiration.

FORWARDS: Halani Aulika (London Irish), Siua Halanukonuka (Narbonne), Tevita Mailau (Mont-de-Marsan), Sila Puafisi (Gloucester), Sona Taumalolo (Racing), Soane Tonga’uiha (Oyonnax), Kalafi Pongi (Auckland), Sefo Sakalia (CSM Bucuresti), Elvis Taione (Exeter), Uili Kolo’ofai (Newcastle), Lua Lokotui (Beziers), Steve Mafi (Force), Joe Tu’ineau (Lyon), Viliami Fihaki (Sale), Nili Latu (capt., NEC), Viliami Ma’afu (Oyonnax), Jack Ram (Northland), Hale T-Pole (Harbour Hawks)

BACKS: Sefo Ma’ake (Havelu), Taniela Moa (Pau), Tane Takulua (Newcastle), Latiume Fosita (Doncaster), Kurt Morath (Biarritz), Martin Naufahu (Melbourne Rising), Alipate Fatafehi (Colomiers), Sione Piukala (Perpignan), Viliami Tahitu’a (Northland), Otulea Katoa (Southland), Fetu’u Vainikolo (Exeter), Telusa Veainu (Rebels), Vungakoto Lilo (Tarbes)

 

 

USA

The Eagles had a busy year in 2014, but a frustrating one, winning only three games out of nine with a draw to open their World Cup Qualifying series against Uruguay in March. They somehow managed to topple Romania in Bucharest, a commendable effort, but then were routed by Tonga and outgunned by Fiji.

The most obvious absentee from the squad is Northampton star Samu Manoa, who will instead get settled into life in Toulon before joining up with the team in August for their World Cup run. Adam Siddall and Shawn Pittman have retired due to concussion, while young props Ben Tarr and Angus MacLellan are both out with long-term knee injuries. Otherwise, this is essentially the group that will go to the World Cup in September.

Uncapped players include utility front row Chris Baumann, back row Al McFarland, flyhalf A.J. MacGinty, and 7s winger Zack Test.

On November’s tour the Eagles showed glimpses of expansive running rugby, but without their Premiership stars just didn’t have the horses to make it happen often enough. Their other big deficiency has been in the scrum, and it’s hard to see how that can improve dramatically with the same personel. They do have a strong lineout, and if they can structure their game plan appropriately, they have the ability to turn pressure into points scoring opportunities.

CAPTAIN: With Todd Clever struggling to hold down a starting spot, Chris Wyles has been nominated to lead the team through to the World Cup. It’s not a great surprise given his professional experience and status among his peers, though one wonders if this might also mean a move to the midfield, where he has spent much time with Saracens, rather than his usual Eagles position of fullback. Wherever he plays, he is a steadying influence with a solid left boot that has been heavily relied on more often than not.

KEY PLAYERS: Built like a fire hydrant, Phil Thiel has no real challengers at hooker and will be charged with keeping the front row in line. Behind him, the great bulk of Greg Peterson is a welcome addition to a creaky scrum. Flanker Scott LaValla was tipped by many to take over the captaincy, and will still be expected to lead the forwards. Mike Petri probably isn’t going to set the world alight, but he will be the starting scrumhalf and his service will be crucial to the American attack. New vice-captain Blaine Scully has developed into a first class player, big and strong and as good as anyone under the high ball.

ONE TO WATCH: One of the most abrasive players on the HSBC Sevens Series, the time has come for Danny Barrett to return to his roots in the full version of the game. Capable of playing across the back row, where exactly he might line up is a mystery. Whevever he ends up, you can put money on him being exciting.

HEAD COACH: All international coaches face intense scrutiny, and Mike Tolkin has certainly had to bear the brunt of heavy criticism since being appointed in 2012. While sometimes over the top, it has not been entirely unwarranted. The New York native has struggled to get the best out of his side and looks set to experiment once again in this year’s PNC.

FORWARDS: Chris Baumann (Santa Monica), Eric Fry (Newcastle), Olive Kilifi (Seattle), Titi Lamositele (Saracens), Mate Moeakiola (Castanet), Zach Fenoglio (Glendale), Phil Thiel (Life), Greg Peterson (Leicester), Hayden Smith (Saracens), Lou Stanfill (Seattle), Danny Barrett (SFGG), Todd Clever (OMBAC), Cameron Dolan (Northampton), Andrew Durutalo (OMBAC), Scott LaValla (Stade Français), Al McFarland (NYAC), John Quill (NYAC)

BACKS: Mike Petri (NYAC), Shalom Suniula (Seattle), Toby L’Estrange (NYAC), A.J. MacGinty (Life), Seamus Kelly (SFGG), Folau Niua (SFGG), Thretton Palamo (Saracens), Andrew Suniula (CSM Bucuresti), Takudzwa Ngwenya (Biarritz), Blaine Scully (Leicester), Zack Test (USA 7s), Brett Thompson (USA 7s), Troy Hall (NYAC), Chris Wyles (capt., Saracens)