FOXSports.com · Jul 1, 2017
Tonga beats Samoa 30-26 in Pacific Nations Cup
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) Tonga has beaten Samoa 30-26 in a Pacific Nations Cup rugby test on Saturday, its first test in eight years in the Tongan capital Nuku’alofa.
In front of a crowd of 10,000 at the Teufaiva Stadium, Tonga built a 20-16 lead by halftime then held out Samoa in the second half with a try, conversion and penalty to England-based scrumhalf Sonatane Takulua.
Tonga led 30-19 before a try to Alapati Leiua, converted by Tusi Pisi, brought Samoa within four points. But the home side hung on to join Samoa on five points on the Pacific Nations Cup table, behind leaders Fiji with eight points.