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South Africa and New Zealand aren’t the only ones suffering a mini injury crisis. Samoa Sevens has been forced to make three changes as a result of injuries to Reupena Levasa, Mikaele Pesamino and Tom Iosefo, according to the IRB.

Samoa Sevens coach Galumalemana Moors has recalled Uale Mai, Lolo Lui and Jerry Meafou to the national squad for the USA Sevens this weekend (14-15 February).

Although the Samoans had been hot form in the build up to the Wellington, they were one of the biggest disappointments of the tournament losing against Fiji on day one and both France and Niue on day two.

“We’re aware the country will be uneasy with the team’s results," said Moors. "It was a real surprise to us as well as our preparations to Wellington had been top-class.

"The things we planned and practiced just did not translate to action on the field this time round."

The return of the experienced Mai is a welcome one for Moors who would have probably made the trip to Wellington anyway had he recovered from his own fitness problems. Mai is the most capped IRB World Sevens Series player of all-time and has skippered the side in previous campaigns.

Moors is happy that his team has experienced a reality check now and not at the World Cup with time to get things right, although the injuries suffered in New Zealand are a major blow.

While playmaker Reupena Levasa should only be out for one or two weeks with a knee problem, Mikaele Pesamino and Tom Iosefo will both be out for two months or more, so will miss the World Cup.

"We are not going to dwell on the disappointing result of Wellington but we are now more determined to put this behind us and move ahead to the challenge of the USA Sevens, the last major tournament before the World Cup in March.”

“Our focus has been to have our best squad playing their optimum when the World Cup comes around but of equal importance is to have a ready pool of back-up players with experience," he said.

“It is now important for us to move on with that set plan. With Uale, Lolo and Jerry on board we are now on our last stage of the World Cup journey.

Samoa squad for the USA Sevens: Ofisa Treviranus, Simaika Mikaele, Apelu Faai’uga, Afioa’e Maiava, Alafoti Fa’osiliva, Alatasi Tupou, Uale Mai, Lolo Lui, Timoteo Iosua, Morgan Salesa, Jerry Meafou, Christopher Lei Sam Non-travelling reserves: Sam Lemalie, Filo Lepou