Get ready for an explosive encounter as Joseph Tapine, the star player for the Kiwis, gears up for a challenging match against Toa Samoa in the Pacific Championships. Tapine, in a recent interview with Sam Ackerman from Sport Nation, shared his insights on the upcoming game, which promises to be an intense battle.
Tapine, fresh from the NRL season, understands the importance of team synergy and is determined to lead his team to victory. He acknowledges the challenge, stating, "It's a tough one, but we're ready to build those crucial combinations."
The Kiwis have been training hard, and Tapine believes their intense sessions will pay off. "The boys are firing on all cylinders," he said. And when asked about the upcoming clash with Payne Haas, Junior Paulo, and Josh Papali'i, Tapine replied, "It's going to be a bloodbath, and that's exactly what we train for."
Ackerman, the host, couldn't help but agree, suggesting the stadium might need earthquake-proofing for such a powerful encounter.
But here's where it gets personal: Tapine will face his Raiders teammate and friend, Josh Papali'i, on the field. "We'll go at it during the game, but afterward, we'll enjoy a cold one together," Tapine said. "He's one of my best mates, and I know we'll both be giving it our all for our respective countries."
Tapine's intensity is well-known among NZ Warriors fans, who witnessed his fiery performance when the Raiders played the Wahs in Auckland earlier this year. "The boos from the Warriors fans gave me an extra boost," Tapine admitted.
However, Tapine sees this tournament as an opportunity to gain respect and prepare for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup. "We need to show the world what we're capable of and earn the respect our jersey deserves," he said.
The Kiwis take on Toa Samoa at Go Media Stadium on Sunday, October 19th, at 6:05 pm. Will Tapine and his team emerge victorious? Only time will tell.
What do you think? Will the Kiwis dominate, or will Toa Samoa pull off an upset? Let us know in the comments!
