League: Godinet faces up to old mates

Pita Godinet. Photo / Getty Images

Samoa's Pita Godinet expects a torrid welcome from his old Warriors teammates in the Kiwis when the two sides meet in tomorrow's Four Nations test in Whangarei.

The diminutive No 9 was a standout performer off the bench in last Saturday's thrilling but ultimately disappointing loss to England, scoring two vital tries to earn a starting spot for the Toll Stadium clash.

Godinet left the Warriors last year after three seasons to take up a two-year deal with Super League club Wakefield and is looking forward to an on-field reunion with some familiar faces.

"It's going to be a good game especially coming up against the boys," Godinet said.

"I always look forward to playing against them. We're mates off the field but on the field you've just got to play for your country and let the result deal with itself."

The 26-year-old laughed off suggestions the big Samoan pack will be playing on the minds of the New Zealand players and says both teams will be primed for a big performance.

"There's a huge task ahead of us. The Kiwis always fire up and especially with all the Samoan boys. We've all been teammates and I think the enthusiasm will bring out the best in all the players."

Christchurch-born Godinet replaces Michael Sio.

"It's always good to get a starting jersey. Last week's efforts were just off the back of the boys in our forward pack. We've got a big strong forward pack and hopefully I can capitalise off their quick play-the-balls.

"I'll try and get into the game early, run as many times as I can, but if not just try and guide the boys around the park and hopefully not get spotted up."

Coach Matt Parish expects Godinet to match those standards this week and for the whole side to build on the promise shown in their last outing.

"Pita came on and created a lot of energy for us and he was really good," Parish said.

"Every time he's represented Samoa he's played really well. His effort last week was terrific and he, like the rest of them, need to play that well again. "

As for his new life in England, Godinet couldn't be happier but admits to craving another chance in the NRL.

"I'm enjoying my footy over there. The wife loves it and that's the main thing. I've got one more year and then we'll see. I'd love to have another go in the NRL but you never know what might happen.

"I think we are blessed to be on that side of the world. There's a lot of stuff out there and it gives me an opportunity to explore that side of the world."