It’s a defining day in the season for our Premier and Premier Development teams as they head across town to face club rugby heavyweights Ponsonby.

With both teams sitting unbeaten after six weeks of competition the aim is to come home with two more wins this afternoon.

Injuries continue to impact both squads, particularly in the front row. Sesimani Tupou and Sam Crichton start either side of Moses Hafoka at hooker. Hayden Hafoka is set to make his premier debut off the bench. 

Elsewhere Jayden Randall returns to lock and Tane Dunn also returns to pair with Paulo Wallwork-Tuala in the midfield. 

Coach Boof said the occasion of playing at Western Springs against the Ponies is at the back of their mind.

“We have tried not to build it up too much but we know they are a good team. Joe Royal is in the middle of their scrum who is a very experienced campaigner, we will have to be on top of our game to negate what he brings. They have a very dynamic loose forward trio so we’ll have to be onto it at the breakdown and collision.”

“They have players with professional and international experience, so we are going to have to be disciplined and show a desire to play for each other.”

Boof also mentioned how great the support has been for the teams this year.

“The support of club members and sponsors has been really good this year – its good to see everyone enjoying their footy.”

The PD’s will look to continue their impressive run – having secured six bonus point wins on the trot. Hooker Gafatasti Su’a goes up against his former club while Sione Fifita returns from injury and will start in the midfield.

The Panthers have another bye this week, the Under 21s return home and host our neighbours East Tamaki. After a few tough matches against competition front runners, they’ll be aiming for a big match on home turf.

The Belles are also back at home against Karaka and have some new talent set to debut off the bench. Last but certainly not least is the Presidents who have the long journey across the city to take on Waitemata.

The premier team is;
1.    Sesimani Tupou
2.    Moses Hafoka
3.    Sam Chricton
4.    Sanele Williams
5.    Randall Baker
6.    Setefano Leavasa
7.    Marc Holzer
8.    Sione Takai
9.    George Sims
10.    Riley Harrison
11.    Cruiz Overend
12.    Tane Dunn
13.    Paulo Wallwork Tuala
14.    Harlyn Saunoa
15.    Paula Maama

16.    Lotu Finau
17.    Hayden Hafoka
18.    Jerry Samania
19.    Sean Carter
20.    Niukula Osika
21.    Michiale van Wyk
22.    Reynhardt Schutte
23.    Ezekiel Wye
 

Article added: Saturday 18 May 2024