FUKUOKA, 7 Oct - Samoa back-row Josh Tyrell says his fascination for numbers helps him on the rugby field and promises the Pool A teams they can count on a big performance in their last game from the Pacific Islanders.

Growing up in Hamilton, New Zealand, Tyrell, above, followed his father's interest in numbers and went on to complete a Bachelor of Management Studies, majoring in accounting.

"I love my numbers. You put me in a room and I'll count them up. I love it, I get little thrills from it," said the 28-year-old.

"I got a degree but haven't really worked too much in accounting yet. Mum and dad always told me I can't leave home unless I've got a degree or a trade."

His maths skills have come in handy while chasing his dreams on the rugby field.

"In rugby I see numbers as well. Our formations, our lineouts, everything has to do with numbers and it's fascinating," he said.

"That's just how I see it. But everyone is different."

After defeats by Scotland and Japan, Samoa’s hopes of reaching the quarter-finals are over.

"At the moment the boys are a bit gutted. We know we could have done more," Tyrell said.

"That's something we've got to take on the chin but we're going to go all guns blazing this weekend against Ireland."

A third-place finish would earn Samoa a spot at the France 2023 Rugby World Cup, so there is a lot to play for.

"We can't wait to play the Irish. It's always good to play one of the top-five teams in the world," Tyrell said.

"The Japanese did something amazing (beating Ireland) and we're hoping to follow in their footsteps and get one on top of them (Ireland) as well.

"Anything is possible and we're just going to go out there and enjoy it, hopefully giving something back to the people in Samoa."

RNS pl/sg/icr/ajr