The sight of Ukuma Ta’ai leading the Tongan Haka will be a lasting memory of the 2013 World Cup for many rugby league fans – and the Huddersfield Giants forward will also be taking plenty from the tournament as well.
While Tonga’s 16-0 win over the Italians at The Shay was only a matter of pride for the Mate Ma’a, leaving the tournament with another win under their belts mattered to Ta’ai and his teammates.
“We always feel like a family and we talked about that before we played against Italy, who are a very good side,” said Ta’ai.
“So we went out and played like a family and we got the result that we wanted.
“We wanted to do that for our country, for our land, and we did it for the Tongan people – which is something we love to do.”
Tonga bowed out having notched victories over the Cook Islands 22-16 at Leigh Sports Village and then the success in Halifax, but a narrow 26-24 defeat in their opening game against Scotland at Workington’s Derwent Park, always made it an uphill battle.
However Ta’ai was more than gratified by the Tongan squad’s tournament and added: “The boys did great and we finished the tournament well.
“We managed to get the scores when we needed them and we really just wanted to finish well for everyone.
“I have really enjoyed working with players who are at different clubs or playing in different competitions in different countries.
“We came together well as a group and we have all learned from each other.
“Our younger players have really worked hard and our senior players have all really enjoyed it.
“The tournament has been a real highlight for us all – but sadly we didn’t get to go through.”
And Ta’ai was blown away by the support that the Tongans had received from the crowds at the World Cup games.
“I was shocked by the crowds,” admitted Ta’ai.
“We knew there would be Tongan fans here, but a lot of people have been really with us.
“I think a lot of people have come from different clubs to support us, I know quite a few from Huddersfield have come to watch and I know fans from other clubs have been coming out to support the likes of Mickey Paea and Willie Manu.”
However, it is now back to business and, with the Giants already back in pre-season training, the Tongan second-row forward was hoping to talk to head coach Paul Anderson into giving him a little break.
“I’m not sure just what will be happening yet, but I think they want me back in for training,” said Ta’ai.
“I want to have a talk and see if there is a chances of me giving my body a rest, but whatever happens I am really looking forward to another good season with the Giants.”
