Moana Pasifika search for back-to-back wins

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Backs skills coach Damian Karauna said the 39-36 win over the Fijian Drua in Melbourne at the weekend was excellent as a team, although they had missed opportunities through the backs and were vulnerable on occasions.

"But that's where the Drua exploit you. They're a great team, an exciting team. We've worked on that this week."

While they had transferred their home game from Albany to Hamilton's FMG Stadium, it was something they were looking forward to.

"It's a challenge, but we've got other challenges we've got to work on. It's a venue, there'll be a good crowd there, so we're excited."

Despite the issues the Rebels have faced regarding their future, they played exciting rugby and performed well in beating the Force on the weekend.

"They play a wide brand of footy, their backs work extremely hard. We've got a plan to go out there and contain them. It's going to be a good game, there'll be a lot of running involved."

Now in his second season with the side, Karauna said it was exciting working with many new players making their debuts.

"The excitement is there, we're building, we're fitter and winning that game at the weekend, those are the results we let go last year so, if we can nail those and really nail our game and shut those games out, we'll get a few more wins on the board."

Coach Tana Umaga said, "I'm expecting the Rebels to come over with confidence after a good win over the Force.

"They play an attractive style of rugby and are always looking to attack with some very classy and powerful players. It should be an exciting game as we like to play the same way."

Injuries have gone deep in the Moana Pasifika camp, with 12 players unavailable for the game.

Flanker Sione Havili Talitui will captain the side for the second week, while Samiuela Moli will start at hooker. Pepesana Patafilo will return on the right wing, and Anzelo Tuitavuki will start on the left wing.