Rugby: Close Pacific Cup match

Halfback Junior Poluleuligaga and winger Mikaele Pesamino scored Samoa's tries in a thrilling 24-23 win over Tonga yesterday in rugby's Pacific Nations Cup.

Samoa were also awarded a penalty try as they opened their cup campaign with a narrow win over their neighbour.

First five-eighths Lolo Lui converted all three tries and fullback Paul Williams kicked a penalty. Winger Alaska Taufa, on his Pacific Nations Cup debut, and fullback Vungakoto Lilo scored tries for Tonga while halfback Kurt Morath kicked three penalties and two conversions for 13 points.

Fiji beat Japan 22-8 in the opening match of the tournament at Lautoka, Fiji, on Saturday.