The team unit have worked hard on their preparation heading into an undeniably tough match against a formidable Tasman side.

“It’s an opportunity for our players to test themselves against one of the benchmark teams in the competition” said Hewett

The team to take on the The Mako has changes from the side named against the Hawkes Bay Magpies in round one with forward Shaun Stodart starting in loose-head prop and Joe Walsh moving into the replacement jersey and Lewis Ormond is starting on the wing and with the injection of Rory van Vugt on debut into jersey number 23. Jack Capil will also get his first game of 2018 replacing loose forward Bill Fukofuka in jersey 20.

Despite the score line against Hawkes Bay Southland enjoyed long periods on attack with good field position and strong set piece. Phase defence was also strong providing a solid platform to work on areas to build from and carry into Sunday’s match up.

Intensity and physicality were evident for long periods of the game and creating opportunities for backs Isaac Te Tamaki and Tauasosi Tuimavave to get one on one against defenders will provide attacking opportunities and test Tasman’s defence as their ability was evident in last week’s opening game.

Harnessing the positives and building on them heading into round two is what the side will continue to do to put their best foot forward.

“We all know Tasman are a great side, but we also know what we are capable of doing we need to make sure we execute our plays and if we do so, it will be a good game” said Hewett.

Team named for Southland Stags v Tasman Mako, Lansdowne Park, Blenheim, Sunday 2.05pm

Forwards:

Shaun Stodart, Flynn Thomas (cc), Morgan Mitchell, Ben Fotheringham, Manaaki Selby-Rickit, Wade McRae, Phil Halder, Tony Lamborn

Backs:

Jay Renton, James Wilson (cc), Lewis Ormond, Matt Johnson, Aleki Morris-Lome, Isaac Te Tamaki, Tauasosi Tuimavave

Reserves:

Andrew Ready, Joe Walsh, Chris Apoua, Ray Tatafu, Jack Capil, Nico Costa, Broc Hooper, Rory van Vugt

Article added: Friday 24 August 2018