By GABRIEL KATUHO
SAMOAN rugby league star Brian To’o is looking forward to facing three Papua New Guinean players who have signed development contracts with the PNG Chiefs when Toa Samoa takes on the PNG Kumuls today.
Finley Glare, Morea Morea Jnr and Gairo Voro, who signed development contracts with the Chiefs earlier this year, are part of the Kumuls squad for today’s match. To’o said he was pleased to see the young players showcase their talent while also having the opportunity to display his own skills.
The three PNG players remain in contention for opportunities with the Chiefs, as confirmed by the club’s general manager, Michael Chammas, during a press conference in Port Moresby.
Today’s clash provides an opportunity for the trio to demonstrate their abilities in front of the Chiefs management before potentially joining their future teammates at the club.
To’o arrived in Port Moresby on Wednesday and said he was impressed by the warm welcome from the Samoan community.
“It’s pretty cool. You can hear the chants and all the support. It’s massive for us, and we are very happy to be here and be among these great people,” To’o said on Wednesday.
He also acknowledged the significance of playing at the Santos National Football Stadium, highlighting the passion of Papua New Guinean fans for rugby league.
“Given the fact that we will be playing at this special stadium, I know from past games I have watched that you can see how much it means to the people of PNG and their love for the sport,” he said.
To’o described the Kumuls as a formidable side, praising their commitment to representing their country.
“The PNG Kumuls are a massive team. You can see their drive and passion for playing for their country and how much it means to these boys. They put up a massive performance against Lebanon last week, and this weekend it’s going to be a massive challenge for us. We just have to prepare and play well,” he added.
Toa Samoa head into today’s match following a commanding 78–4 victory over France in their opening match of the 2026 rugby league campaign.
The Kumuls, meanwhile, secured a 42–18 win over Lebanon at the Santos National Football Stadium and will now face a Toa Samoa side featuring players from the National Rugby League (NRL).
Today’s clash will provide another important test for the Kumuls, while giving the three PNG Chiefs development players an opportunity to showcase their potential against international opposition.