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;

1. Jordan Lay
2. Seilala Lam
3. Michael Alaalatoa (cc)
4. Brian Alainu’u’ese
5. Theodore McFarland
6. Steven Luatua
7. Alamanda Motuga
8. So’otala Faaso’o
9. Melani Matavao
10. Lima Sopoaga*
11. Ben Lam*
12. Tumua Manu
13. Neria Fomai
14. Nigel Ah Wong
15. Danny Toala
16. Luteru Tolai
17. James Lay
18. Paul Alo-Emile
19. Chris Vui (cc)
20. Sa Jordan Taufua
21. Ereatara Sotiaka Enari
22. Christian Lealiifano
23. Ed Fidow

*Denotes first cap for Samoa

FACTS ABOUT MANU SAMOA vs BARBARIANS

1. This will be the second time, Manu Samoa plays the Barbarians
2. The first encounter was Pre-RWC2015 when Barbarians met Manu Samoa at Olympic
   Stadium, Stratford, England. Barbarians won 27-24
3. 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.
4. 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