PAPALII CALLS ON HOME FANS FOR GRAND FINAL REMATCH
The Blues are back in front of home fans at Eden Park this weekend for a rematch of last season’s DHL Super Rugby final against the Crusaders on Saturday, March 18 at 7:05pm.
The match doubles as a reunion for the 2003 Blues team and a chance to celebrate 20 years since their own Super Rugby victory against the Crusaders.
Blues Head Coach, Leon MacDonald, has shuffled the forward pack slightly for this weekend’s grudge match, while in the backs Mark Telea is the only change on the right wing after missing last weekend.
The bench features Soane Vikena, Jordan Lay, Taine Plumtree and Zarn Sullivan - all looking to get their first cap for 2023.
“It was a bruising encounter against the Hurricanes last weekend with a few sore bodies around Blues HQ at the start of the week,” said MacDonald.
“Motivation for this match wasn’t an issue; I know the boys still hurt from the final last year and want to put in a strong performance against a Crusaders side who we know will be hungry and determined.”
MacDonald also reflected on the 2003 final and joked how his allegiances have shifted this time around.
“It’s funny how things change, I was playing in that 2003 final that the Blues won and now I’m very keen to see history repeat itself on Saturday night!”
Blues Captain, Dalton Papalii, said after three weeks on the road, his team are looking forward to playing in front of their home fans.
“Home games are where you can defend your turf and make it a fortress. We’re aiming to do just that against the Crusaders,” said Papalii.
“They always present a strong challenge so I would encourage the people of the Blues region to get along to Eden Park and be our 24th player on Saturday night.”
Papalii also noted the impression past Blues players have on the group.
“It’s great to have the Blues Alumni involved with the club, it creates a strong connection between the past and present players. We had Sean Fitzpatrick name our team this week and it was cool to hear about his time with the Blues and provide some motivation for this weekend against the Crusaders.”
Blues
Alex Hodgman
Ricky Riccitelli
James Lay
James Tucker
Cameron Suafoa
Adrian Choat
Dalton Papalii
Hoskins Sotutu
Finlay Christie
Beauden Barrett
Caleb Clarke
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck
Rieko Ioane
Mark Telea
Stephen Perofeta (50 Blues games)
Reserves:
Soane Vikena
Jordan Lay
Nepo Laulala
Tom Robinson
Taine Plumtree
Taufa Funaki
Bryce Heem
Zarn Sullivan
Players not considered: Sam Darry (knee), Joshua Fusitu’a (ribs), Akira Ioane (knee), Sam Nock (calf), Patrick Tuipulotu (knee), Ofa Tuungafasi (concussion).
Match Details:
Blues v Crusaders
Saturday, March 18 | 7:05pm
Eden Park, Auckland
Coverage: SKY SPORT & Gold Sport + iHeart Radio
**KIDS GO FREE with a paying GA adult + look out for our new family seating zone at Eden Park**
Blues memberships and ticket information for both Blues men’s and nib Blues women’s fixtures can be found online at www.blues.flicket.co.nz
BRING YOUR HEADPHONES!
There’s a new feature available at the park this season. With Livefeed, you can listen to live audio from your mobile phone using 4G and gain all the insights and knowledge that you would normally get from watching at home. Livefeed offers near real-time audio, ensuring you never miss a single try, penalty or ref’s call. Plus, you can click over to the house PA to hear the entertainment pieces including pre-match, half time and full time.
Simply scan the QR code on the big screen at the ground, or visit blues.livefeed.fm from within the venue to enjoy the new audio experience.