Vaovasa’s lineup reflects a strategic blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent.
With a focus on teamwork, versatility, and a commitment to the sport’s values, the selected
players are poised to deliver an exceptional performance on the field.
“Our lineup for the Barbarians match presents a great opportunity for more game time for the team as we prepare for the Rugby World Cup. It brings together an exceptional group of athletes that will work together to find combinations and familiarize themselves with playing in France. After a long journey from home, the team is ready to take on the Barbarians on what will be a tough match. “
Match Details
Date: Friday 18 August 2023
Time: 8:45pm in Brive and 7.45am Saturday 19 August in Samoa
Location: Stade Amedee-Domenech, Brive
Manu Samoa vs Barbarians line-up as follows;
- Jordan Lay
- Seilala Lam
- Michael Alaalatoa (cc)
- Brian Alainu’u’ese
- Theodore McFarland
- Steven Luatua
- Alamanda Motuga
- So’otala Faaso’o
- Melani Matavao
- Lima Sopoaga*
- Ben Lam*
- Tumua Manu
- Neria Fomai
- Nigel Ah Wong
- Danny Toala
- Luteru Tolai
- James Lay
- Paul Alo-Emile
- Chris Vui (cc)
- Sa Jordan Taufua
- Ereatara Sotiaka Enari
- Christian Lealiifano
- Ed Fidow
*Denotes first cap for Samoa
FACTS ABOUT MANU SAMOA vs BARBARIANS
- This will be the second time, Manu Samoa plays the Barbarians
- The first encounter was Pre-RWC2015 when Barbarians met Manu Samoa at Olympic
Stadium, Stratford, England. Barbarians won 27-24 - Christian Lealiifano played for the Barbarians in the first match in 2015 having played
against Jack Lam and Tim Nanai-Willliams. Roles have reversed and Lealiifano
wearing the blue jersey will face off Lam and Nanai-Williams as the Barbarians. - Manu Samoa was scheduled to play the Barbarians in 2021 in England but the match
was later called off two hours from kick-off due to a Covid-19 breakout within the
Barbarians camp