USA Looking To Bounce Back

The USA are hungry to get back to winning ways this weekend in the Pacific Nations Cup when they tackle Samoa.

Mike Petri will win his 50th cap for the Eagles as he comes back into the side at scrum-half.

USA head coach Mike Tolkin was frustrated at the way his side were beaten by Samoa last weekend in the opening round of the competition.

Saturday’s clash with Japan in Sacramento offers the USA a chance to get back on track as the side build towards the Rugby World Cup later this year.

Among the changes is the return of Scott LaValla to the pack, who recently lifted the Top 14 title with Stade Français.

“We need to start the game with much more energy and intensity. We were on our heels a lot and we were loose around the rucks on defense.

“Secondly, we need much more focus on keeping the ball in the attacking 22 and coming out with points more often.”