Pacific Islanders arrive in Dublin ahead of Sunday’s Test
The Pacific Islanders have arrived in Dublin to prepare for their clash with Ireland at Lansdowne Road on Sunday afternoon.
Head coach Pat Lam showed considerable dismay at his side’s performance on Saturday afternoon and reserved particular attention for a lacklustre first half.
“I am so disappointed with how we started,” he said. “We were 30 points down before we began to make an impression.”
The team has now haemorrhaged 62 points in first halves against Wales and Scotland respectively, as opposed to only 10 points in second halves.
Despite his frustration Lam was also quick to praise the Scots for their improvement.
“They were very impressive,” he said. “They scored some terrific tries and were outstanding in the first half. There is a good blend of youth and experience.”
Following the game, Lam announced some players have either left camp or will do so in the next 24 hours.
Saturday’s first try-scorer Rupeni Caucau has returned to Agen (France) for personal reasons whilst long serving back-rower Semo Sitite has flown back to Japan, also for personal reasons.
Isoa Domolailai has a recurring back problem and will return to Toulon in the next 24 hours.
Medical staff have reported a clean bill of health for the rest of the squad - the only concern was second rower Simon Raiwalui who had x-rays on his wrist following the loss to Scotland but the hardworking captain was given the all clear and will train all week.
Meanwhile Lam has provided a strong endorsement of the Pacific Islanders concept in particular the notion that such a side should appear in an expanded Tri Nations competition.
“That would be a terrific idea and if we had more time with these players and a greater opportunity to bring continuity to the party, I am sure that results and their displays would improve significantly.”
