THE Mate Ma’a Tonga rugby league team upset of the Australian Kangaroos last weekend will be fuel for the Tonga men’s 7s team in this week’s Oceania Rugby Sevens Championships in Suva.
Mate Ma’a Tonga means to die for Tonga and has been the inspiration for Tongan sports teams, especially its rugby league side.
“That was a big win for all of Tonga,” said team manager Seluini Iloa.
“We look forward to put the same spirit into this weekend’s tournament,” The team arrived into Fiji on Monday night and began training at Suva’s Albert Park yesterday.
“It’s great to be back in Fiji and adapt for one of the region’s greatest 7s tournaments.”
Iloa said it was extra special with the Olympics qualification on the line this week.
“Every team coming to the Oceania 7s wants to qualify for Japan and that includes us.
“Every player in the team knows what’s at stake this weekend and they are ready to do their part for our people, our king and our country.”
Iloa said they were calling on the Tongan community in Fiji to support their team. Tonga is in Pool C with Australia, Nauru, American Samoa and Vanuatu.
The tournament starts tomorrow.
