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Media at Darwin airport today is abuzz with an unexpected arrival, as the lead singer of Sydney-based Alt-Rock band Gang Of Youths was seen wearing full Toa Samoa squad clothing and Beats headphones.
David Le’aupepe was spotted alongside other members of the Samoan national side, confirming rumours that the rum-swilling rockstar has thrown the boots back on.
“Fuckkk, he’s looking pretty good” said one Virgin hostess from their flight.
“He must have been in training, he’s really bulked up”
It is believed that Le’aupepe will be replacing Melbourne Storm fullback, Young Tonumaipea, after questions arose surrounding the rising star’s eligibility following revelations that his first name is actually a nickname that has been appropriated from Yee-Huang – the 7th most common first name in mainland China.
Le’aupepe, who’s father is Samoan, says he always knew this day would come, but was waiting for
“I didn’t think I would be more eligible than someone born in Apia” Le’aupepe told the media.
“But I guess the stats from my juniors still stand, there was a point in my life where I could have really pick up either a guitar or a Steeden”
“Obviously, I chose music, but it is great to get a chance to trot around again. Toa Samoa!”
“I always remember what my u12s coach told in Strathfield as a kid. They can’t run without heads. Billy Slater, I’m looking at you”
Samoa have one more chance heading into this match after two losses and a draw in their earlier pool clashes.
The side has already been listed as the tournament’s biggest disappointments – the side must now take to Darwin with momentum to prove that they deserve to be in the finals.
Australia v Samoa at Darwin Stadium, Darwin, 8pm (AEDT)
Australia squad: 1 Billy Slater, 2 Dane Gagai, 3 Will Chambers, 4 Josh Dugan, 5 Valentine Holmes, 6 Michael Morgan, 7 Cooper Cronk, 8 Aaron Woods, 9 Cameron Smith, 10 David Klemmer, 11 Boyd Cordner, 12 Matt Gillett, 13 Josh McGuire 14 Wade Graham, 15 Jordan McLean, 16 Reagan Cambell-Gillard, 17 Tyson Frizell 18 Felise Kaufusi, 19 Cameron Munster, 20 James Maloney, 21 Ben Hunt
Samoa squad: 1. David Le’aupepe 2. Matthew Wright 3. Ricky Leutele 4. Joseph Leilua 5. Timoteo Lafai 6. Jarome Luai 7. Ben Roberts 8. Junior Paulo 9. Jazz Tevaga 10. Herman Ese’ese 11. Joshua Papalii 12. Frank Pritchard 13. Leeson Ah Mau 14. Fa’amanu Brown 15. Bunty Afoa 16. Suaia Matagi 17. Joseph Paulo 18. Zane Musgrove 19. Frank Winterstein 20. Pita Godinet 21. Ken Maumalo
