Tonga name final team for Mann Cup

The Tonga New Zealand Residents have confirmed their final line-up for the inaugural Upright Access Mann Cup match against Auckland this Saturday, June 2.

Pt Chevalier enforcer Daniel Palavi will captain the side, which features former National Youth Competition players Eko Malu and Joseph Price, and current Vodafone Warriors reserve-grade squad members Willie Stowers and Trent Schaumkel.

The match at Mount Smart Stadium will see a Tongan side return to Auckland for the first time since Mate Ma’a Tonga’s semi-final clash against England last year, which drew 30,000 fans to the same venue.

Auckland v Tonga NZ Residents kicks off at 2.30pm, with the Auckland Maori U20 and Toa Samoa Invitational U20 playing the curtain-raiser at 12.30pm.

Tonga New Zealand Residents

1 Tevita Mikaele (Otahuhu)

2 Ethan Nukanuka (Otahuhu)

3 Sione Tongia (Otahuhu)

4 Peter Oliveti (Mt Albert)

5 Akuila Tuha (Papakura)

6 Willie Stowers (Papakura)

7 Eko Malu (Northcote)

8 Saimone Makahili (Mt Albert)

9 Netane Vi (Mangere East)

10 Daniel Palavi (Pt Chevalier) - captain

11 Ma'afu Briggs (Marist)

12 Trent Schaumkel (Northcote)

13 Joseph Price (Mt Albert)

Interchange:

14 Jonah Sofele (Otahuhu)

15 Kruz Tupou (Howick)

16 Hosea Taukatelata (Glenora)

17 Koli Oneone (Pt Chevalier)

Coach: Duane Mann

ENDS

© Scoop Media