BBE Vaiala

The team fielded most of last year’s national under 20 reps like East Timor Faamatuainu, Mark Tusigaigoa and Fuli Faafouina to take on the Lupe o le Soaga side.

Former Manu Samoa International Coach Masoe Steven Betham said the trio have transferred their combination from Under 20’s to Senior A’s with ease.

“They’ve played together for two to three years now, coming through Vaiala’s development in the Under 20s, and their combination was proven today.”

Masoe said Blackie also fielded youngsters just 22 years old such as Wesley Patu and Meleniuma Afatia.

The defending champions first won the title in 2011 before winning it again last year.

Vaiala is in Pool A, alongside Satalo, Moatoa and Ulutogia.

The host team, Marist St Josephs is also the favourite of the competition after winning the title 12 times.

Marist is in Pool D alongside Lupesiliva, Faleolo Jets and Malie Sharks.

Auckland Marist St Josephs and Fiji’s Tabadamu are the only overseas teams that have won the title.

Auckland Marist won it three times while Tabadamu only won it in 2019.