nib BLUES NAME EXCITING TEAM FOR AUPIKI FINAL

The nib Blues have named a strong team as they look to defend their Super Rugby Aupiki title against Matatū in front of a home crowd this weekend.

The final will be contested this Saturday, April 12th, with a 7.05pm kickoff at Eden Park. The game is the second of a double header and will follow the Blues v Moana Pasifika match at 4.35pm.

The forward pack is largely unchanged from last week’s victory over the Hurricanes Poua, with Holly Greenway slotting in at number 6.

The backline boasts an intimidating lineup featuring the experienced heads of Ruahei Demant and Krysten Cottrell, as well as the explosive power of Portia Woodman-Wickliffe and Katelyn Vahaakolo.

The final will be even more special for nib Blues stalwarts Cottrell, Demant, and Patricia Maliepo, who will all bring up their 20 game milestone on Saturday.

The nib Blues have met Matatū twice this season, defeating the South Island team 28-7 in their first match-up, before losing the second 37-29.

Coach Willie Walker says the team is expecting a hard fought match.

"Matatū are a quality side who’ve shown their ability to bounce back,” said Walker.

“We’re preparing well and the team is excited to be playing at Eden Park in front of our home fans. We know we’ll need to be at our best to retain the title, and we’re ready for that challenge."

Captain Maiakawanakaulani Roos says the team has been working hard and is excited to play at Eden Park in front of a home crowd.

"We're hungry to get them back after the last game!” said Roos.

“It's going to be an amazing match and we're calling on all our fans to come down and support us."

nib Blues to play Matatū at Eden Park on Saturday, kick-off 7:05pm

1. Chryss Viliko
2. Atalanta Lolohea
3. Aldora Itunu
4. Maiakawanakaulani Roos (Captain)
5. Maama Vaipulu
6. Holly Greenway
7. Taufa Bason
8. Liana Mikaele-Tuu
9. Tara Turner
10. Krysten Cottrell – 20th Game
11. Jaymie Kolose
12. Ruahei Demant – 20th Game
13. Portia Woodman-Wickliffe
14. Katelyn Vahaakolo
15. Braxton Sorensen-McGee

Reserves:

16. Grace Gago, 17. Awhina Tangen-Wainohu, 18. Harono Te Iringa, 19. Eloise Blackwell, 20. Dajian Brown, 21. Kahlia Awa, 22. Sylvia Brunt, 23. Patricia Maliepo – 20th Game

Buy tickets at blues.flicket.co.nz