Tonga captain Ben Tameifuna says the team is already looking ahead to the next Rugby World Cup in 2027.
Photo: Photo sports
Tongan winger John Tapueluelu scored a brace as the 'Ikale Tahi earned their first win of the Pacific Nations Cup series, defeating Canada 30-17 in Tokyo on Saturday night.
The speedster scored a try in each half of the game at Prince Chichibu Stadium.
It was a fitting end to the team's PNC campaign this year, which was also the first for coaches Tevita Tuifu'a and Nili Latu.
The duo took over as coach this year and had lost friendlies against Italy, Spain, Fiji and Samoa.
Inspirational captain Ben Tameifuna said it was great to win.
“I thank Canada for the game today, we knew it would be tough,” he said.
“I thank the guys for the win. Achieving this is a good step in our preparation for RWC2027.
“We are excited, we are looking forward to the future and there is a lot of talent coming to us. This is a great opportunity for the players.”
Link Patrick Pelegrini was named player of the match after a great performance as coach of the team.
Head coach Tuifu'a said Canada put pressure on the team.
“The third quarter was tough and they put us under pressure. I'm thankful to the guys for hanging on and getting the win,” he added.
The Tongans led 19-10 against Canada at halftime and had scored three tries.
These tries came from flanker Siua Moala, winger Tapueluelu and full-back Josiah Unga.
Pelegrini scored two conversions for his team in the first period.
Canadian hooker Andrew Quattrin scored his team's only try of the first half, while connector Peter Nelson added a penalty kick and a conversion try.
Close second half
Canada appeared more determined in the second half.
They managed to keep the Tongans at bay and deny them any attempt for 38 minutes.
Canada put Tonga under pressure and won numerous Tongan lineout throws.
They also rushed the ball down twice as Tonga attempted to clear it early in the second half, with Pelegrini and half-back Aisea Halo putting pressure on him with their kicks.
Pelegrini got the first chance to score with a penalty kick outside the Canadian 22 line, and Tonga led 22-10.
Canada struck back: outside centre Takoda McMullin picked up the ball from the base of a scrum, ran away unhindered and dived under the crossbar.
But Pelegrini with his second penalty and Tapueluelu, who scored from outside, had the last word and Tonga was able to claim its first win in the series.
Tonga ranked fifth in the PNC rankings for 2024.