Samoan captain Junior Paulo delivered a passionate speech to his teammates after their stunning win against England.
And it sums up everything that is so inspirational about this Samoan team.
Samoa came away 27-26 winners in the Rugby League World Cup semi-final in a mammoth turnaround of their 60-6 opening game loss to England.
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It is perhaps one of the most exhilarating comebacks in the sport’s history - and it’s safe to say the impact was not lost on Junior Paulo and his Samoan stars.
Footage posted to Marty Taupau’s Instagram account shows the 28-year-old standing before his team as he reminds them to never forget this moment.
The speech starts at around the nine minute mark.
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He said: “I don’t know if I have the words to describe how much it means.
“We’re all here because of the blessings and prayers that are going on around the world — Australia, Brisbane, you can name every city around the world.
“Every single Samoan around the world is going to be proud of what we achieved.
“It was always going to be tough when a lot of critics were against us but we always said the only thing that matters is the people in this room.
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“That was going to be the only thing that carries us throughout this tournament. I said it before, that belief never changed right from the get-go, from the first day we came into camp together.
“We spoke about it last night, being prepared to offer your eyes, your mouth.
“The win tonight is overwhelming but never forget the impact we have had on the world, don’t forget the impact we have had on those people around the world who have never met us but have supported us right from the get-go.
“They have never forgotten about us and now we have one more week to enjoy everything together. Enjoy spending time, enjoy the win and enjoy waking up tomorrow like this.”
Coach Matt Parish also had words of inspiration for the players.
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Parish said: “I see so much inspiration, pride and passion from everyone... to make all of this happen.
“It is special so enjoy it — enjoy this week, enjoy tonight, let’s make the most of this opportunity. I am happy it is not over.”
The scenes were jubilant in the Samoan camp after knocking out the hosts in the historic win.
They now turn their attention to the World Cup final against Australia next weekend in what will be a hard-hitting battle.
Featured Image Credit: @martykapow/Instagram.Topics: Rugby League, NRL
