Luai Ready for Hostile Kumuls Test in Port Moresby

Jerome Luai is preparing for a demanding contest against the Papua New Guinea Kumuls, with the Toa Samoa playmaker expecting a difficult afternoon when the two sides meet in Port Moresby this Saturday.

The Parramatta-bound star arrived in PNG ahead of the Rugby League World Cup fixture, acknowledging that the Kumuls’ home-ground advantage and familiarity with local playing conditions could make the encounter challenging.

 Luai Ready for Hostile Kumuls Test in Port Moresby

Although Samoa demolished France 78-4 in their previous outing, Luai said the result would count for little if his team failed to maintain its focus against the home side.

Samoa are determined to keep their campaign on track under the tournament’s pool format, leaving little room for mistakes as the competition progresses.

“We can’t afford to lose, and we are looking to face the Kumuls in a strong match, in front of their home crowd,” Luai said.

He added that the Kumuls were well equipped to handle conditions in Papua New Guinea and would be difficult to overcome in front of their passionate supporters.

The former Penrith Panthers five-eighth, who is expected to relocate to Papua New Guinea in 2028, is also confident that Samoa possess a stronger squad than the one that reached the World Cup final in the previous tournament.

Luai said the team would need to remain disciplined and focused throughout its upcoming matches if it hoped to advance further.

“I think this team is much better than that team respectfully, and we have a few tough games coming up, so we have to be locked in in every game,” he said.