Mike MacDonald will become the USA's most-capped player when he turns out in the Eagles' opening World Cup clash against Ireland.
McDonald will represent the Eagles for the 63rd time on Sunday, surpassing the record previously held by Luke Gross.
The prop, together with centre Paul Emerick, will also equal the record of eight World Cup appearances, currently held by Alec Parker.
Eagles coach Eddie O'Sullivan has made eight changes to the team that lost to Japan in their final warm-up clash.
In the back-line, Taku Ngwenya replaces Kevin Swiryn on the wing while Andrew Suniula comes in for Tai Enosa in the midfield, with Paul Emerick moving one over to outside centre. Roland Suniula starts at fly-half, with Nese Malifa dropping to the bench.
Patrick Danahy is the only back row survivor from the Japan clash, with JJ Gagiano and Louis Stanfill replaced by Nic Johnson and returning skipper Todd Clever respectively. At lock, John van der Giessen replaces Scott LaValla who has to make do with a spot on the bench. In the final change, Shawn Pittman replaces Eric Fry at prop.
USA: 15 Blaine Scully, 14 Taku Ngwenya, 13 Paul Emerick, 12 Andrew Suniula, 11 James Paterson, 10 Roland Suniula, 9 Mike Petri, 8 Nic Johnson, 7 Todd Clever (capt), 6 Louis Stanfill, 5 Hayden Smith, 4 John van der Giessen, 3 Shawn Pittman, 2 Phil Thiel, 1 Mike MacDonald.
Replacements: 16 Chris Biller, 17 Matekitonga Moeakiola, 18 Scott LaValla, 19 Pat Danahy, 20 Tim Usasz, 21 Nese Malifa, 22 Colin Hawley.
Date: Sunday, September 11
Venue: New Plymouth
Kick-off: 18:00 (06:00 GMT)
Referee: Craig Joubert (South Africa)
Assistant referees: Nigel Owens (Wales), Carlo Damasco (Italy)
Television match official: Graham Hughes (England)
Comments
GoWalesGo says...
its a shame Samu Manoa couldnt make the world cup he was a monster for the saints last weekend
Posted 14:43 09th September 2011
5Lock4ward says...
The is a God in heaven; Malifa is not starting this match! But...where the hell is Chris Wyles?! I would've loved to seen he and Emerick as the center pairing. Some weaknesses in this squad but about the best the Eagles could have done with what's available to them. If Mr. Emerick can avoid a red card this time around the USA should keep it respectable, fingers crossed.
Posted 12:51 09th September 2011