Moana Pasifika vow to adapt and connect with fans following Tonga match relocation

Moana Pasifika players are eager to “push on” following the news that their Super Rugby Pacific match in Tonga has been relocated.

The game against the top-of-the-table Waikato Chiefs, scheduled to be played in Nuku’alofa, has been relocated due to several logistical issues.

Pukekohe's Navigation Homes Stadium will host the match on Friday, March 21 at 7.05pm, “bringing the Pacific to Pukekohe” and marking the first of two home games at the ground in 2025.

Moana Pasifika winger Solomon Alaimalo says the team, especially their Tongan players, feel gutted.

“It’s out of our control. No doubt, we were really looking forward to heading over there and connecting with our roots, especially our boys with Tongan heritage.

“But it’s out of our control. I know the boys are gutted, but we’ve got to be able to adapt. It’s (now) an opportunity for us to head out to our fans in Pukekohe and connect.”

In a statement, Moana Pasifika interim CEO Debbie Sorensen says the news is “sad”, but Moana are eager to consider rescheduling a game in the island Kingdom.

“It’s sad to say that we can’t make it happen this time, but we are already looking at how we can take a game to Tonga in 2025.”

Moana last played in Tonga in a rainy clash against the Otago Highlanders in May last year. Moana lost 28-17.

Moana last played in Tonga in Round 11 of the Super Rugby Pacific 2024 season. Photo/Moana Pasifika.

Moana Pasifika vs Hurricanes

Looking forward to this week's fixtures, Moana Pasifika winger Solomon Alaimalo says the team are keen to improve.

Moana lost all three of their games this season against the Western Force from Perth, Australia, the Queensland Reds, and the Highlanders last week.

“We’ve definitely found what works for us, but we’ve got to buy in as a group. Those three games were winnable for us, and at the moment, it’s a double-edged sword.

“We’re beating ourselves at the moment, but if we limit ourselves and what hurts us as a team, the results will come.”

Moana play the Wellington Hurricanes on Saturday at North Harbour Stadium.

Photo/Moana Pasifika.

Alaimalo says following their first home game last Saturday, players are hoping for another huge turnout.

“Having fans there, like last week, the boys who have been here a few years, that was probably the best crowd they’ve gotten.

“That’s helped us in the backend, and we’re hoping to get the result and give 110 percent. Our skip put in a good performance last week, and we’ve all got to step up.”

Moana Pasifika vs Wellington Hurricanes, 8 March, North Harbour Stadium at 7.05pm.