World Cup warm up

LONDON – Manu Samoa has thanked the London Wasps Rugby Club for their support of Samoa’s Rugby World Cup preparation.

Manu Samoa Team Manager Namulauulu Sami Leota said the team’s final warm up match ahead of the Rugby World Cup, had been an important preparation for the team.

Samoa won the match 25-19 but only with a late try in the dying stages of the game.

“We are very grateful they were able to include us in their pre-season hit out. We had a very short but enjoyable stay at the Wasps new home at Ricoh Arena – and we were very impressed,” he said.

Prior to the match kicking off, the Wasps presented Namulauulu with a glass trophy and Wasps plaque, while Samoa presented the Wasps with a wooden tanoa and a signed Manu Samoa jersey.

Leota said: “Thank you to the Manu Samoa and Wasps supporters who came out to Ricoh Arena and who followed the results on social media.”

“We hope all those Wasps supporters will look at Samoa as their other favourite team at the Rugby World Cup.”

“We hope that this unique match is the start of a new partnership between our two organisations and we thank you again for the opportunity to play your team.”

“We wish the Wasps Club all the best for a successful season.”