Within the opening spherical of the seventeenth version of the Asahi Tremendous Dry Pacific Nations Cup, there have been two upsets.
Who had been the standout performers within the first spherical of the Pacific Nations Cup?
Whereas his quartet of tries might not be essentially the most spectacular in rugby historical past, it highlighted Ardron’s capability to be in the appropriate place on the proper time, showcasing each dedication and superior physique positioning close to the attempt line.
Ardron accomplished a hat-trick by halftime, as Canada overcame deficits twice in the course of the match. Within the 57th minute, with the rating tied at 20-20, he blasted by way of the Eagles’ protection, serving to Canada take management and never concede once more. Moreover, Ardron led the match in tackles (25) and carries (19), whereas additionally securing a handful of lineouts.
Canada had not crushed the USA since 2021 and had solely received two of their final 16 encounters towards the Eagles. Curiously, Ardron captained Canada 16 occasions with out registering a win.
Piers Von Dadelszen (Canada)
Though the USA was strong within the scrums towards Canada, they struggled within the lineout. Canada received 15 of 17 lineouts on their very own possession, whereas the USA managed to safe solely 58% of their ball. Von Dadelszen excelled on this space, profitable seven lineouts and contributing 16 tackles, which helped to neutralize the Eagles’ assault.
Patrick Pellegrini (Tonga)
Mercurial first five-eighth Patrick Pellegrini has skilled a breakout 12 months in 2025. He was distinctive for Moana Pasifika throughout their groundbreaking Tremendous Rugby Aupiki marketing campaign, the place they secured six victories. He scored tries in wins towards the Crusaders and Waratahs and was distinctive within the North Harbour Stadium conquest of the Hurricanes.
Pellegrini has at all times been able to dazzling assaults, however at occasions, he must be extra methodical. On this match, he showcased sparks of aptitude whereas adhering to construction, avoiding overplaying his hand. He goal-kicked fantastically, efficiently changing three tries and making three penalties.
As for Pellegrini, he has received 5 of his 13 Exams for Tonga, scoring a complete of 53 factors. Tonga has solely received 27 of their 68 Exams towards Samoa..
Iakopo Petelo-Mapu (Samoa)
Iakopo Petelo-Mapu comes from the village of Fale’ula on Upolu, Samoa’s second-largest island. His rugby journey has taken him from Wesley Faculty (Samoa) to Massey Excessive College (Auckland), Kia Toa (Palmerston North), Moana Pasifika, Northampton, and Stade Francais.
Petelo-Mapu is extremely wanted as a result of his tireless work charge and combative bodily edge. In a match the place Samoa was outmuscled, Petelo-Maputo refused to buckle main Samoa with a dozen carries and gaining 69 meters. He additionally made six tackles.
