USA Rugby test cap, Langilangi Haupeakui is ready to make his European debut with the Glasgow Warriors.
The United States began their first professional Rugby Union conference last year with Pro Rugby. The competition began well for the USA and Pro Rugby is exceeding all expectations. Pro Rugby is proving to be a valuable training ground for building the game in the USA.
Many breakout players capitalized on Pro Rugby’s success and were offered contracts to play for European teams following the end of the season.
Langilangi Haupeakui made his debut in professional rugby for the Sacramento Express. Haupeakui took to his role as outside flanker well enough to attract the attention of the Glasgow Warriors.
In an interview with talkingrugbyunion Coach Gregor Townsend commented on Langilangi’s signing:
He is a strong ball carrier and hits very hard in the tackle. There will be a lot for him to work on and learn about how we play, but he will bring a high level of physicality to our forward pack, as well as increasing our strength in depth in the back row.
Langilangi is looking forward to beginning with his new team as he talked about when he sat down with WarriorTV:
INTERVIEW | USA international Langilangi Haupeakui has arrived at Scotstoun and can not wait to pull on a Glasgow shirt. pic.twitter.com/Fge1s1n3qr
— Glasgow Warriors ? (@GlasgowWarriors) October 20, 2016
Langilangi will make a great addition to an impressive back row in Robert Harley and Ryan Wilson. He only played one year in the United States and was able to make his presence known overseas. He will be a great addition to the Glasgow Warriors and the experience he gains there will help the USA Eagles.
Glasgow looking to continue their European success against a heartbroken Munster team.
Glasgow shocked Premiership fans across the world with their dominant performance against Leicester Tigers in Scotland last week. Leonardo Sarto had a very good day with a straightforward try early and an intercept try late in the game. Glasgow’s performance was of the highest order and has put doubters of the Pro 12 on the Back foot.
Munster will be playing for the memory of their head coach, Anthony Foley, who tragically passed away last Saturday evening. The Corriners report stated that Anthony Foley died from a buildup of fluid in his lungs. No team is more dangerous than one playing for a memory. Munster is certain to come out playing hard and fast to dedicate to the memory of the great Irish player and coach.
Glasgow will have their hands full this weekend against Munster. Playing with the same aggression and focus of last week will be the best chance for a Warriors victory. The development of young players like Langilangi will help maintain the success the Glasgow is experiencing right now.
