Samoa Hockey Federation entered both their men and women's teams in the Hockey5s competition which was a first in this competition format.
Team Head Coach Peta Teo was pleased with their first day's efforts.
The Women's team had a win and a loss while the men had a loss to Australia Country.
Both teams faced tough draws first up playing against Australia Country.
The Women lost 10--2 while the Men lost 13-1. However, both teams were competitive and learnt a lot from the matches, especially how to utilise the boards to clear from defence. This was very evident when Samoa women played their second game against Pacific neighbours Tonga.
Samoa took the first period to gain combinations and took a 2 goal lead into the first break. However, the 2nd and 3rd periods showed that they will be a medal contender when they scored 10 more goals. The Tongan GK Emeline Tafengatoto made many saves and kept Tonga in the match.
Goalscorers for Samoa vs Tonga
M. Whitman 4,S. Fagalilo 4, G. Tuiletufugo 2, M. Muliaga and T. Matautai