Manu Samoa shrugged off a strong challenge from the Barbarians to win 28-14 in France on Saturday morning (Samoa Time).

Manu Samoa started strong and led 11-0 at halftime at the Stade Amedee. Fritz Lee scored the only try of the first half while debutant flyhalf Lima Sopoaga was on fire with two penalty goals.

It was Samoa who started strong in the second half with tries to Tumua Manu and replacement halfback Ereatara Enari.

Manu Samoa had held the Barbarians scoreless for over 60 minutes with solid defence.

The Barbarians had a late surge and scored two tries with the captain Jean-Luc Du Preez and Henry Speight getting on the scoreboard.

Manu Samoa now prepares to face Ireland next Saturday 26 August as part of their pre-World Cup games.