15 Jul 2017

Samoa and Fiji gearing up for rugby test in Apia

11:32 am on 15 July 2017

Samoa and Fiji control their own fate, with both teams chasing major milestones in this afternoon's rugby test in Apia.

A win or draw would seal Samoa's qualification to the 2019 Rugby World Cup, while a bonus point would draw them level with Tonga, and be decided on points differential.

The Manu are still seeking their first victory of the year after defeats against New Zealand, Wales and Tonga.

Captain David Lemi said they want to get the job done now in front of their home fans.

"In terms of qualifying for the World Cup there's another option to go after this one but we just want to take the opportunity right in front of us so that's why we focus on on our own performance instead of focusing on the other parts."

Samoa captain David Lemi and Fiji's Akapusi Qera pose with the Webb Ellis Cup ahead of Saturday's Pacific Nations Cup decider, which doubles as a World Cup qualifier.

Samoa captain David Lemi and Fiji's Akapusi Qera pose with the Webb Ellis Cup ahead of Saturday's Pacific Nations Cup decider, which doubles as a World Cup qualifier. Photo: World Rugby

Fiji have already qualified for the Rugby World Cup but are determined to retain the Pacific Nations Cup title in Apia, with all three countries, including Tonga, still a chance at lifting the silverware.

The 'Ikale Tahi lead the standings with five points from their two matches in Nuku'alofa, with Fiji in second placer with four points, three clear of Samoa.

Flying Fijians captain Akapusi Qera said they're taking nothing for granted against the Manu.

"They just need to get it together and for us, as a group, that's what scared us because they haven't sparked in these June tests and they might spark this Saturday so, for us, we're just trying to prepare ourselves and trying to counter what will be coming on Saturday and I know that the Samoan team will be up for it."

Fiji coach John McKee said Pacific Nations Cup is an important goal for the team and believes they still have plenty of room for improvement.

"Looking at the Samoan team on paper: very very good backline, a lot of experience in their backline. I'd expect them to maybe play a little bit more expansive than what we'd see Tonga playing. I think for us really it's about getting the little things right in our game and how we play, and I'm not overly concerned about what Samoa will do," he said.

"We've got a good defensive system but really for us it's about finishing our plays and finishing our attack and taking our opportunities."

Former Manu Samoa lock Dan Leo bleeds blue but said it could be a tough afternoon for the home side in Apia.

"Obviously the heart wants to see a Samoan win and that would get us across the line for World Cup qualification as well but geez Fiji are on amazing form at the moment."

"I don't think they've lost a game this series so it's hard to see how (Samoa can win) based on form but hopefully they'll be missing a couple of players, maybe now that they've already qualified...we've got the home advantage as well so fingers are crossed for a Samoan win."

Meanwhile the Webb Ellis Cup is in Apia for today's qualifying match and will be on display before the kickoff.