Samoan skipper Junior Paulo delivered a passionate and inspirational speech to his teammates after stunning the rugby league world with a 27-26 win over England.
Stephen Crichton was able to ice the game for Matt Parish’s side with an 83rd minute golden-point field goal to book a grand final against the Kangaroos at Old Trafford.
Samoa were flogged by the hosts 60-6 in the opening game of the World Cup but shirked off heavy criticism of their performance to make a huge finals surge.
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SAMOA win extra time epic to make FINAL! | 01:45
Paulo paused, gathering his thoughts, before explaining his team should never forget the impact they have had on Samoan supporters around the globe.
“I don’t know if I have the words to describe how much it means,” Paulo said in footage posted to Marty Taupau’s Instagram account.
“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.
“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.
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Paulo sinbinned for lift on Burgess | 00:42
“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.”
The Samoan squad could be seen signing and dancing to celebrate the huge victory, while the team’s coach kept his address short and sweet.
“I see so much inspiration, pride and passion from everyone… to make all of this happen,” Parish said.
“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.”
Post-match Parish also responded to the critics and hit back at pundits who claimed his side should board the first flight home after being embarrassed by England in October.
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“Inspirational and passionate, that’s what this team is all about,” Parish said post match.
“Passion and pride. It is an unbelievable effort from these guys.
“We have had our critics. A few things have gone against us. Five guys have gone home. We are down to the bare bones.
“These guys keep turning up for each other. They have got each others’ back.
“Plenty of people had plenty to say four weeks ago about going on planes home and all that.
“But the pride and belief and passion in this group is just phenomenal.
“It was inspirational. To put Samoa in the World Cup final, the tiny little dot in the middle of the pacific is just incredible.”
