Samoa resist changes for Namibia opener

The wait is almost over for Samoa after they announced the team for their World Cup opener against Namibia in Rotorua. The Pacific Island nation named an unchanged line-up from the one that rattled the rugby establishment two months ago beating Australia 32-23, and become the first team at this World Cup to field the same side as played their final warm-up.

Samoan fullback Paul Williams, son of former All Black winger Bryan Williams, said the team was looking forward to starting their campaign tomorrow. “We’ve had a good build-up but we’re rugby players and we like to be playing rugby, not training,” he said.

Namibia have made three changes for their second game following the 49-25 loss to Fiji on Saturday.

Samoa: P Williams, S Tagicakibau, G Pisi, S Mapusua, A Tuilagi, T Pisi, K Fotuali’i, G Stowers, M Faasavalu, T Tuifua, K Thompson, D Leo, A Perenise, M Schwalger (capt), 1-Sakaria Taulafo. Subs: T Paulo, C Johnston, J Tekori, O Treviranus, J Poluleuligaga, E Sapolu Fuimaono, T Lavea.

Namibia: C Botha, D Dames, D van Wyk, P van Zyl, L Winkler, T Kotze, E Jantjies, P Jan van Lill, J Burger (captain), J Nieuwenhuis, H Franken, H Koll, R Larson H Horn, J Redelinghuys. Subs: B O’Callaghan, J du Toit, N Esterhuyse, R Kitshoff, R de la Harpe, D de la Harpe, T Losper.