nib BLUES NAME STRONG TEAM FOR TOP OF THE TABLE CLASH

The nib Blues women have named a strong team for their top of the table clash against Matatū.

The sides are the only undefeated teams after two rounds of Super Rugby Aupiki and will meet in what’s promising to be a blockbuster match at 2.05pm this Saturday at Trafalgar Park in Nelson.

Two changes in the pack for the nib Blues see Harono Te Iringa bolster the front row at tighthead, while exciting young loose forward Paris Mataroa has been named at number 6, with both making their first start in a Blues jersey.

The backline sees Ruahei Demant move to 10, while Black Fern Sylvia Brunt slots in at 12. Portia Woodman-Wickliffe remains at number 13 after her match-winning try in the dying minutes against the Chiefs Manawa.

The bench sees a debutant in loose forward Holly Greenway, while prop Cheyenne Tuli-Fale and versatile Black Fern back Patricia Maliepo suit-up for the first time this season.

Coach Willie Walker says the team is expecting a physical encounter against Matatū.

“We’re preparing for a real battle this weekend. There are no easy games in Aupiki and both teams will be very hungry for that win on Saturday,” said Walker.

“We had a really tight game last week. You learn a lot from those encounters and I’m expecting an improved performance from us come Saturday.”

nib Blues to play Matatū at Trafalgar Park on Saturday, kick-off 2:05pm:

1. Chryss Viliko, 2. Atlanta Lolohea, 3. Harono Te Iringa, 4. Maiakawanakaulani Roos ©, 5. Maama Vaipulu, 6. Paris Mataroa, 7. Dajian Brown, 8. Liana Mikaele-Tu'u, 9. Tara Turner, 10. Ruahei Demant, 11. Jaymie Kolose, 12. Sylvia Brunt, 13. Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, 14. Katelyn Vahaakolo, 15. Braxton Sorensen-McGee

Reserves: 16. Grace Gago, 17 Awhina Tangen-Wainohu, 18. Cheyenne Nauna Tuli-Fale, 19. Holly Greenway (debut), 20. Elizabith Moimoi, 21. Kahlia Awa, 22 Krysten Cottrell, 23 Patricia Maliepo

No injuries.