Moana Pasifika take on the Blues in Auckland derby with history on the line in Super Rugby

The Auckland derby is back and Moana Pasifika will be looking to make history again as they take on the Blues at Eden Park on Saturday in round five of Super Rugby Pacific.

Moana have had a tough season with just one win from four matches and face the challenge of playing in Blues territory.

But last year, they pulled off a memorable first-ever win over the Blues, beating them 36-24 at North Harbour Stadium. And the side, which was captained by All Black star Ardie Savea, who has left on a sabbatical, will be hoping to repeat that same feat.

“The Blues are coming off a good win and we know they’ll be looking for some revenge,” head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga said in a statement. “We’ve just got to focus on ourselves and get the game right.”

The match will also see former All Blacks prop Atu Moli make his Moana debut after joining as an injury replacement.

Atu, who has seven seasons with the Chiefs and two with the Western Force, comes from a family deeply rooted in the club. His brothers Samiuela, Monu, and Sekope are also in the squad.

Moana Pasifika celebrate their historic win over the Blues in last year’s campaign. Photo/Andrew Cornaga/Photosport

“We’re excited to see Atu out on the field,” Umaga said. “He’s worked really hard to get to where he is now.

“Coming back from multiple injuries isn’t easy but he hasn’t given up and is an excellent example of resilience and persistence, which is very inspiring.”

For Moana, this isn’t just about one player. The team will rely on leaders like Miracle Faiilagi, who took over from Savea, and the backline.

Hoskins Sotutu of the Blues. Photo/Andrew Cornaga/Photosport

They will also be keeping an eye on the Blues’ dangerous wingers Caleb Clarke and Codemeru Vai, who were key in their 29-13 win over the Crusaders last Saturday.

Umaga says Moana is concentrating on their own game and making sure they execute the basics well.

The Blues are confident heading into the derby. Head coach Vern Cotter has kept most of his winning lineup from last week with only a few changes to minor injuries.

“We are being intentional around managing those well while still early in the season,” Cotter said in a statement. “Those named for Saturday have an opportunity to take their chance.”

Fans can expect a physical battle, with Moana hoping they can do just enough to secure another upset. For more information on fixtures and results click here.

Match details: Moana Pasifika vs Blues

Location: Eden Park, Auckland

Kick-off: 3.35pm (NZT)

Teamlists

Moana Pasifika: Tito Tuipolotu, Millennium Sanerivi, Atu Moli, Tom Savage, Allan Craig, Miracle Faiilagi ©, Semisi Paea, Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa, Augustine Pulu, Patrick Pellegrini, Glen Vaihu, Lalomilio Lalomilo, Tevita Latu, Tevita Ofa, William Havili. Bench: Mamoru Harada, Monu Moli, Lolani Faleiva, Veikoso Poloinati, Dominic Ropeti, Joel Lam, Ngani Laumape, Tuna Tuitama

Blues: Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Kurt Eklund, Marcel Renata, Josh Beehre, Sam Darry, Anton Segner, Dalton Papali’i ©, Hoskins Sotutu, Sam Nock, Beauden Barrett, Caleb Clarke, Xavi Taele, AJ Lam, Codemeru Vai, Cole Forbes. Bench: James Mullan, Mason Tupaea, Sam Matenga, Laghan Mcwhannell, Malachi Wrampling, Taufa Funaki, Pita Ahki, Zarn Sullivan