The Georgia versus Manu Samoa game has lived up to its hype after 80 minutes of competition with a final score of 19-all.
It was mostly a kicking game which was a surprise with Samoa's kicking almost non-existent in its previous test matches.
However, Patrick Fa’apale who played at first-five didn’t shy away from the challenge when he nailed all of his kicks at goal and a try conversion.
The playing field was leveled as rain took away the humidity that would have played a part in making the game even tougher, leading to the first half tryless, with Georgia ahead nine to Samoa's six.
"We knew their set piece was going to be big and hard to defend and they didn’t disappoint. Those forwards were strong and they definitely tested our strengths," said head coach Namulauulu Alama Ieremia.
The second half started with Samoa putting up 10 points in the first 8 minutes with a penalty kick to Fa’apale and a try under the post to David Lemi after following up his grubber kick.
Georgia later fired back with a try of their own tying the game at 16-all again.
Fa’apale and Georgian fullback Merab Kvirikashvili both put one each over the post and tied the game at 19 with 20 minutes left.
Within the last 15 minutes Georgia were handed an opportunity to seal the win with a penalty kick, but a critical substitution a few minutes earlier put their best kicker Kvirikashvili on the bench and fresh legs to attempt the field goal.
"We could say we were lucky. I mean Georgia took out their fullback and they had the chance to seal that game but we also had opportunities down the stretch that should have been executed properly. But final score a draw and we will take that," said Namulauulu.
"We never play for a tie, we’re out here to win, but unfortunately, we didn’t do that, so we will take this draw and use it as a learning curb for our young team, especially with the match against Fiji who are a much bigger team than Georgia," said Namulauulu.
David Lemi who scored their only try says he’s extremely proud of his young players.
"They put their hand up, they got in that field and they did what they were told and that is the best they can do and I’m really happy for these kids, they did great," said the team captain.
Samoa's next match with Fiji though is expected to much tougher than with Georgia.
However, Namulauulu says there are other experienced players who have arrived late this week and he’s hinting they might be included in the next Manu Samoa team to play in Fiji on Saturday, 18 June 2016.
Photo supplied by Renee McKaySru