We won, but it was far from convincing. This is probably the best Samoan side we have seen at this tournament, but there were certainly some worrying signs for the NZ side. Our score was inflated somewhat by 3 late tries, but apart from that we were completely outplayed in the 2nd half. Samoa dominated up front, had the edge at the breakdown, and we struggled to breach there backline defense. I can't see us matching South Africa up front on Friday - we are going to have to rely very heavily on our backs.
I thought Harris was the pick of our forwards, though he perhaps needs to add a bit of bulk. Boshier showed some good pace at 7, but needs to get far stronger at the breakdown - he often over the ball, but was very easy to move. Peni looks great with room to move, but seems to take a while to get his big frame going.
Drummond looked good at halfback, and I thought both midfielders played well too, though I feel we would be better starting Faiane at 12. Tavae-Aso was very good on the wing, and Li looked good once he came on. McKenzie was the pick of the NZ players for me. He has a great passing game, kicks well, is very elusive, and seems to have so much time with the ball. He would do a good job at 10 too, but he brings the 2nd playmaking option from the fullback position. He may need to bulk up a bit, but he looks to have a big future....
