NEW Gala coach Opeta Palepoi says improving the club's front row options will be an immediate priority.

The former Samoa international and Scott Dalgleish head up the new coaching team tasked with transforming the fortunes of the Netherdale outfit after last season’s  brush with relegation.

Speaking to the Border Telegraph, he said:  “Last year, we had a few injuries in the front row and that cost us games.

“Our set piece was all over the place, in terms of line-outs and scrummaging. That is a key area we need to strengthen. We know that. If we tidy up the those areas, that is the base we can build from. That’s what I’ll be looking at and the hard work starts now.”

The popular Pacific Islander brings a wealth of knowledge to the role –even though this is his first full foray into coaching.

In a stellar career, he has played for the likes of Harlequins, Glasgow Warriors, Orrell and Border Reivers. His 48 caps for Samoa included two Word Cups, in 1999 and 2003. In the latter tournament, Palepoi scored a memorable try against South Africa and was part of the Samoa side that pushed eventual champions England all the way in Melbourne.

He also captained the Gala side that triumphed in the 2012 Scottish Cup final against Ayr at Murrayfield.

Palepoi cites All Blacks legend Michael Jones as a key influence in his early career, and was delighted to get the chance to play under him for Samoa.

“Michael Jones was an inspiration to me growing up, as he was for many Pacific Islanders” he said.

“To then get the chance to play under him for Samoa was incredible.  His coaching sessions were always lively, always relevant.  And he set high standards.  Samoa might not have been expected to get too far in World Cups, but he didn’t see it that way. That filters down to the players and we caused problems for some very good sides.”

Papepoi said outgoing Gala coach George Graham has also had a telling impact on his career: “I worked with George before we both moved to Gala and then I worked with him for many years after that. I picked up so much from him.

“I think all the players at Gala will tell you similar. Obviously George has his own unique way, and I am not sure anyone can replicate that. They are pretty big shoes to fill. We just have to go our own route and make sure it works for us.”

Palepoi already has a clear vision for how he wants his team to set up, and the style of rugby he wants to see. “I want to see an expansive type of rugby. I want players to go out and express themselves. Don’t be afraid of making a mistake, but play with intelligence.

“The modern game requires players that are able to adapt and think for themselves. We already have players that can do that, and if we can bring more in that mould to compliment the group, I think we will do well next season.”