7s Rugby

The Samoa Rugby Sevens coach Damian McGrath says he knows all too well the pressure to succeed in rebuilding the national programme.

The Englishman has been in the job two months now after working with the English and Welsh sevens programmes.

McGrath has been preparing his first 12 man squad for the upcoming Oceania tournament in Auckland later this month.

He says since being in Samoa he has experienced the passion the nation has for rugby.

Ryan told PACNEWS upon their arrival at Jackson International Airport  Tuesday that Samoa is always a tough team to play against in any 7s tournament.

“ I haven’t seen the team yet  so I don’t know the strength of the side  they brought over  but they will be looking to qualify for Olympics in November, so I’m sure with the new coach as well  they send for this tournament I’m sure they will be a huge threat as well .They always tough to play against.

“I think PNG, Tonga and Samoa this three will make up a prime opposition this week,” Ryan told PACNEWS.