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A big-hitting forward who was brought to Ericsson Stadium well into the 1999 season as Mark Graham tried to create some depth in a squad hit by injury and suspension. Came recommended by assistant coach Mike McClennan who'd worked with Liava'a when he coached Tonga at the 1995 World Cup in Britain (Liava'a played against the Kiwis then). He'd been playing in Mackay in Queensland after a stint with Balmain in 1998 when he made six appearances for Wayne Pearce's side. Had a history of some trouble with a knee injury but was rushed into the Warriors' Bruce Stadium encounter with Canberra in July. Also started in the next match against Brisbane but it was his only other appearance of the season. Has been retained to give the Warriors ample depth - and physical size - among its front rowers. All six designated props range between 104kg and 115kg, perhaps 120kg in Mark Tookey's case. Liava'a has often been used as a second rower previously but the Warriors want him mainly as a prop.
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