In what was an almost identical scoreline to the memorable Pacific Nations Cup meeting between the nations’ two test teams back in June, Tonga A outscored Samoa A five tries to four to win a back-and-forth contest 31-28.
The Tongans went into the opening match of the day with an outside chance of lifting the Americas Pacific Challenge trophy but later victories for the USA Selects and Argentina XV meant they had to settle for third place overall.
They started impressively and had the first points on the board when Jaime Faiva took the ball at pace and powered over for a try which half-back partner, Samiu Muna, converted for a 7-0 lead.
Samoa A were quickly back on level terms though when Melani Matavao was able to capitalise on Paulo Scanlan’s hack downfield.
Tonga responded with two unconverted tries in the space of five minutes from Posiana Kamoto and Muna after La’aloi Leilua was binned for a dangerous tackle.
But Elisapeta Alofipo ensured Samoa A had the final word of the first half when he twisted and turned out of the tackle to score a try which Ricky Pauli Ene once again improved.
Turning around 17-14 in front, Tonga A started the second half strongly and were rewarded with a try for Leiataua Kilifi from a driving maul. Muna added the extras.
Once again, Samoa A struck back, Matavao getting his second of the match before Leilua atoned for his costly yellow card with a try that put Samoa A into the lead for the first time, at 28-24.
It would be short-lived however, as Topui Sekona powered over for Tonga’s fifth try to close out the scoring.