17 Oct 2008

Tonga name impressive lineup to take on Kiwis

6:20 am on 17 October 2008

The Tonga rugby league coach Jim Dymock has named an impressive line-up for tomorrow's one-off test against the Kiwi's at Mt Smart Stadium.

As expected, the combination features four players who can claim international appearances for the Kiwis and the Kangaroos.

The most experienced of them is long-time Warriors back rower Awen Guttenbeil who played 10 times for the Kiwis from 2002-2006.... he also lined up for Tonga in its very first test against New Zealand at the 1995 World Cup.

The other former Kiwis are second rower Epalahame Lauaki and hooker Tevita Leo-Latu while prop Antonio Kaufusi played one test for the Kangaroos in 2006.

Also in the side are Parramatta's skilful ball player Feleti Mateo who will be used at standoff while dazzling young outside backs Michael Jennings (Penrith) and Tony Williams - (Manly-bound from Parramatta) - will provide threats out wide.

Of the 19 players named, only long-time lower grades player Joel Taufaao has not appeared at NRL level.

The match is a warmup to the World Cup later this month.