Steve Jackson

The appointment was confirmed in a press release issued by the Club.

The second-tier Top Challenge League side finished bottom of the table in the 2019-20 season, which concluded in January.

The SRU had initiated a review of the Manu Samoa's World Cup performance last year and the results have yet to be officially announced.

Head Coach Steve Jackson said they know that it will be a physical and rugged rugby experience.

 “Any Fiji and Samoa test is foremost going to be physical battle and big collisions, he said.

“I have told the boys to stick to a system and structure and those who will be on the ground will expect physical contacts.”

Jackson adds Fiji has beaten some very good teams and it would be a very exciting match to watch.

“This is an opportunity to get our confidence back after last weekend will be looking to step up our game and run the game as we expect.”

Jackson’s appointment on 20 September was confirmed by the SRU Board.

Tuilaepa congratulated Jackson on his appointment and reassured him of his support, as well as the support of the SRU board and management during a short meeting.

According to Jackson, he is excited to take on the new role as he heads right into the Manu Samoa preparations for the tour of the Northern Hemisphere.

“It’s an absolute privilege to meet the Prime Minister today and I am looking forward to the Northern Hemisphere tour.”

SRU Chief Executive Faleomavaega Vincent Fepuleai announced Steve’s appointment following the SRU Board’s endorsement. 

A statement said a five-person panel – chaired independently by Rev Siaosi Salesulu and made up of SRU and World Rugby representatives - recommended Steve’s appointment, following a contestable and rigorous process that attracted applications from all around the world.

The SRU CEO, Faleomavaega Vincent Fepulea'i has confirmed the appointment of the New Zealander via telephone.

Jackson is a former New Zealand Maori representative and played for Tasman, Auckland, North Harbour and Southland, where he was captain.

He was assistant coach at Tasman and Counties-Manukau before securing his first head coaching role at North Harbour, leading them to the Championship win which saw them promoted to the Premiership.

Jackoson said he was honoured and privileged to be chosen as the successful candidate.