Worthing reckon they might have unearthed a real force from Down Under as they stay clear of the National Two South dogfight.
Former Taranaki No. 8 Semisi Sualava was thrown in for his debut and scored a try as Raiders clinched a crucial 20-10 win at bottom side Bridgwater and Albion.
Now coach Will Green has backed the Tongan to be a big influence with and without the ball.
Green said: “We have been after him for a while.
“He’s a fairly big gentleman and has a lot of experience playing a good level in New Zealand.
“Already in game one he has given us leadership, which is what we need.
“He’s a good player and having him around will assist the captain.”
Raiders scored three first-half tries in a game labelled beforehand as their most important of the season so far by skipper James Arthur.
The only minor disappointment was they failed to claim a bonus point in worsening conditions.
Green admitted: “The players came off a little bit frustrated not to score four tries but we’ll take the win.”
Charlie McGowan scored the opening try from a great Shane Costigan break, with Matt McLean converting.
Sam Showering’s try got Bridgwater back into the game but Joe Govett and Tualava struck before the interval to open a 17-5 lead.
Jon Edwards touched down to get the hosts back into it but they were denied a losing bonus when Govett landed a penalty from 40 metres.
Arthur said: “We have to be pleased. The attitude was just right.
“Sometimes after a long journey you can get off the bus and not feel ready to play but we started well and carried it on.”
FULL RUGBY ROUND-UP IN THE ARGUS TODAY
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