The Georgians will leave no stone unturned in their test match against Tonga at 12:45pm at the ANZ Stadium today.

Team captain Shalva Sutiashvili said they were not here to make up the numbers but to win their games.

The Lelos drew 19-19 with Manu Samoa in Apia last week.

“We know it will be a difficult match for us against a strong Tongan team,” Sutiashvili said.

“It was difficult for us to adapt to the weather over here but we are here to win.”

Sutiashvili said playing the three island teams Fiji, Samoa and Tonga was positive for rugby development in Georgia.

“It’s a great opportunity to come to the Pacific Islands to play high profile teams like Fiji, Tonga and Samoa.

“But we are here to win all the test matches because the results will have a bearing on the World Rugby standings.”

In the latest World Rugby ranking, Fiji is ranked 10th , Georgia 12th, Tonga 13th and Samoa 15th .

The Lelos also acknowledges Fiji for being good hosts for the second round of the Pacific Nations Cup and test match this week.

“We also want to thank the hospitality of the people of this beautiful island of Fiji, which we can say is a small paradise on earth,” he added.

Tonga

Tongan captain Nili Latu rated the Georgians highly.

“In last year’s RWC they showed a lot of determination and talent but we have prepared well and the boys are ready.

“This week we have been emphasising on discipline and we need to manage the game better,” Latu said.

Latu also praised Fiji for being good hosts during their two weeks stay in Fiji.

“The crowd and the support is great, the Fijians have done a great job hosting the PNC so far. Hopefully more teams will follow as well,” he said.

Edited by Osea Bola

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