Four Westpac Vanuatu Rugby League (VRL) players in David Lolo, Filimone Masei, Xavier Philip and Shayne Tuilagi will make their debut when the VRL take on the might of the Asian Champions in the Philippines Rugby League team, known as the Tamaraws at Chapius Stadium on Saturday 11th October, 2014 in Espiritu Santo (Vanuatu).
The side will be captained by James Wood, who returns after missing the 2013 games through injury and Samuela Loaloadravu who led the side to two victories over Solomon Islands and Niue in Woods absence will be the teams Vice-Captain.
The squad features 11 players born in Vanuatu and 10 players from the local competitions in Port Vila and Santo. The predominantly local based side will be coached by former player John Nash who was excited about his team’s prospects.
“We’ve only had a short preparation but it has all been about quality work. The experienced players from Australia have mixed really well with the local based players that have been highly impressive so far”, Mr Nash said.
It’s been a busy week for both teams as they’ve mixed training with visiting many of the iconic attractions that the island paradise of Vanuatu and in particular Santo has to offer. The Vanuatu team has visited Malo, Port Olry, Hog Harbour, Champagne Beach, Lonoc and a number of Blue Holes while the Philippines have also taken on the Millenium Caves and a number of players have even gone diving on the world famous S.S. Coolidge.
The Philippines team have thoroughly enjoyed their time in Vanuatu and their coach Clayton Watene was looking forward to the game.
“The hospitality of the VRL and everyone in Vanuatu has been outstanding. It is one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever visited and everyone is having a great time. Everyone has a smile on their faces and is super friendly and we can’t wait for the atmosphere at the game tomorrow, it is going to be great”, Mr Watene said.
The Test match will also feature the annual inter-provincial match between the Port Vila representative side and the Santo Boars. The match expected to be a spirited affair, along with the Test match will act as selection event for the High Performance squad which involves specialized training and opportunity for selection in VRL squads moving forward, including the 2015 Pacific Games in PNG.
To keep up to date follow the Vanuatu Rugby League on Facebook or check out the recently launched website at: www.vanuaturl.com
Tickets can be purchased at The Espiritu hotel reception (Ex-Apex) or at the gates on game day.
The final 19 man squad (including squad development players Dominique Sablan and Ben Henderson) and playing number is:
- Shayne Tuilagi
- Xavier Philip
- Jason Pakoasongi
- Nelson Law
- Sweeny Sablan
- James Wood (Captain)
- Joshua Tanner
- David Lolo
- Anthony Delaivuna
- Herbie Henderson
- Joey Meninga
- Sam Pierce
- Samuela Loaloadravu
- Alex Philip
- Filimone Masei
- Ben Lui
- Jean Pierrez Kenie
- Erick Tosusu
- Tonny Lui
- Dominique Sablan
- Ben Henderson
The final 18 man squad for the Philippines including playing number is:
- Richard Goodwin
- Jonico Hardwick
- Shane Gray
- Dennis Gordon
- Steve Tolo
- Arwin Marcus
- Paul Sheedy
- Dylan Jones
- Luke Srama (Captain)
- Glen Power
- Steveb Bernstrom
- Sam Bernstrom
- Rez Phillips (Vice Captain)
- Ellis Jensen
- Micah Hines
- Scott Donnelly
- Fred Colina
- Justin Wrigley
Match Details
Date: Saturday 11th October 2014
Venue: Chapius Stadium in Luganville, Espiritu-Santo (Vanuatu)
Gates Open: Midday
Santo vs Port Vila: 1pm
Vanuatu vs Philippines: 3pm
Half-time entertainment will be provided and there will be food and beverage (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) for purchase on game day.
Admission Prices
Grandstand Ticket: 1,500 Vatu
General Admission: 500 Vatu
Kids U/10: 100 Vatu
Tickets can be purchased at The Espiritu hotel reception (Ex-Apex) or at the gates on game day.