The USA Tomahawks have been preparing well for the crucial RLWC Qualifying match with Samoa on Friday at 5.45pm GMT at Halton Stadium, Widnes in the north of England. Under the guidance of NRL coach Matthew Elliott and assistant Shane Millard the team has been practicing at Super League Europe clubs Castleford Tigers and Wakefield Wildcats home grounds. It has been an ideal preparation being able to utilize first class facilities, and the AMNRL extend their appreciation to the management of both clubs for their tremendous hospitality.

A number of personnel setbacks have to be overcome in the lead up to Friday nights clash. Injuries and unavailability of Clint Newton, Shane Millard, Brandon Costin, and the hand fracture of Nathan DeB artolo will be difficult for the Tomahawks to overcome as they face a Samoan outfit full of New Zealand internationals. Whilst it will be a tough challenge it is not beyond the ability of the US squad to force the biggest upset in the RLWC qualification process.

The team will be announced on Thursday and it is expected that Coach Elliott will have the Tomahawks fired up and ready to take on the Samoan team led by experienced kiwi international Nogel Vagana.

The weather in the UK has been surprisingly clear and dry which has provided ideal training conditions for the Tomahawks. Outside of practice and preparations the squad has been able to enjoy the sights of nearby Wakefield, Castleford and Leeds.