Samoans keeping low

Defending Hong Kong Sevens champions they may be, but Samoa still have to get used to being in the limelight.

In their only public engagement before the tournament kicks off on Friday the squad made an appearance at a sportswear store in Times Square, yesterday and spent most of the time trying to avoid attracting any attention.

It was only after they were asked to do a Siva Tau (a Samoan war dance traditionally performed before each match) that they finally relaxed and even got members of Hong Kong East Mini Rugby Club to join in.

Making a big deal out of things has never been Samoa's style. But that's not to say they aren't determined to hang on to the title they won last year by beating Fiji 27-22 in the final.

'When we won last year it was great, for us and the whole country,' Samoan coach Rudolf Moors said. 'It was a huge victory and we'll be doing everything we can to defend our title.

'Our side is not as experienced as last year, but it's a chance for some of the young guns to step up and show they are up for the challenge.'

Samoa are in pool B along with England, Canada and Sri Lanka.