It's a fine line between team passion and things getting out of hand.

Tongan and Samoan fans clashed in south Auckland on Tuesday night over the Rugby League World Cup.

The competition has ignited tensions between the two communities, with four people being arrested after an incident in Otahuhu.

Former Kiwis and Samoa player Monty Betham said people are right to be excited about Saturday's game.

But he told Mike Hosking people need to keep themselves in check and express their passion in positive ways.

"When you're getting too emotional about what's coming up and excited it can get the better of you. But it shouldn't happen at all, no doubt about it," he said.

LISTEN TO MONTY BETHAM TALK WITH MIKE HOSKING ABOVE