The Pacific Nations Cup comes to a conclusion this weekend with silverware on the line for the two unbeaten teams USA and Japan who meet in the title decider in Suva tomorrow.
The USA take the ball up through the middle against Samoa in the second round of the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup. Photo: Oceania Rugby
The Eagles are chasing their first Pacific Nations Cup title and a possible all-time high of 11th in the World Rugby Rankings if the beat Japan by more than 15 points.
It is a difficult ask though with the Brave Blossoms in good form on the back of two impressive winds against Fiji and Tonga.
Like the USA, Jamie Joseph's men have rankings history in their sights as a record-equalling ninth place could be theirs if they win and the result of the Rugby Championship match between Argentina and South Africa in Salta falls in their favour.
Tonga chase first win of tournament
Tonga are still chasing their first win of 2019 as they prepare to take on Canada tonight in the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup in Lautoka, Fiji.
The Ikale Tahi captain Siale Piutau said they learned a lot from their 41-7 drubbing at the hands of Japan.
Piutau said while they have always backed their physicality they want to bring some tempo into their game to enable them to control the pace of the match.
He said this camp is the longest the boys have had together at any one tournament and he hopes that extra time spent together and with their coaches will pay dividends.
"We usually meet a week before campaigns, in the past PNCs and end of tours, so to have this amount time together... The coaches have a plan, so we can try and achieve the goals we have set so we can be in good nick come Rugby World Cup."
Tonga take on Canada tonight at Churchill Park.
Fiji anticipate physical encounter against Samoa
Meanwhile, The Flying Fijians coach, John McKee, said he is anticipating a very physical game against Manu Samoa this evening.
The two Pacific rugby giants meeting in the last match of the Pacific Nations Cup a crucial encounter in the lead up to the Rugby World Cup.
Both teams have one win apiece in the cup Samoa having beaten Tonga and Fiji, Canada which means they will be effectively playing for third place.
