Bay of Plenty heads to Wellington with a big incentive to lower the capital side's colours and the prospect is for a tight tussle at Westpack Stadium.
HEAD TO HEAD: Wellington vs Bay of Plenty
VENUE & TIME: Westpac Stadium, Wellington, Thursday September 30, 19.35 NZT.
Wellington is without its two gun wingers, as Hosea Gear and Julian Savea are both away with the Commomwealth Games squad. Neemia Tialata is still bothered by an ankle problem, which means last week's pack is unchanged. Toby Arnold is away with the Commonwealth Games team, which means Ben Smith turns out at fullback for the Bay, while Brett Mather moves to the wing in place of Jason Hona.
Wellington has stumbled a bit in recent weeks, even if it did contribute significantly to an excellent match at Christchurch. Neither of its last two wins has been particularly convincing – in fact the Lions really haven't put together a full 80-minute performance all season – and that needs to be turned around smartly as the playoff race is becoming increasingly congested. Bay of Plenty took 14 of a possible 15 points from its three-match home stand but owes its high place on the table to an ability to beat up low-ranked sides; as yet the Steamers have not won against any of the teams above them on the ladder. If they are harbouring top four ambitions, that needs to change.
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HEAD TO HEAD: Wellington vs Bay of Plenty
VENUE & TIME: Westpac Stadium, Wellington, Thursday September 30, 19.35 NZT.
Wellington is without its two gun wingers, as Hosea Gear and Julian Savea are both away with the Commomwealth Games squad. Neemia Tialata is still bothered by an ankle problem, which means last week's pack is unchanged. Toby Arnold is away with the Commonwealth Games team, which means Ben Smith turns out at fullback for the Bay, while Brett Mather moves to the wing in place of Jason Hona.
Wellington has stumbled a bit in recent weeks, even if it did contribute significantly to an excellent match at Christchurch. Neither of its last two wins has been particularly convincing – in fact the Lions really haven't put together a full 80-minute performance all season – and that needs to be turned around smartly as the playoff race is becoming increasingly congested. Bay of Plenty took 14 of a possible 15 points from its three-match home stand but owes its high place on the table to an ability to beat up low-ranked sides; as yet the Steamers have not won against any of the teams above them on the ladder. If they are harbouring top four ambitions, that needs to change.
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