Counties Manukau v Otago

[Stargazer]

https://www.steelers.co.nz/steelers-heat/latest/news/graham-goes-with-youth-in-first-steelers-side.html

[Kiwiwomble]

typically...havent seen anything about Otago yet....but theyve been saying we have a new jersey and supporters gear coming and havent seen that 2 days before the season kicks off eaither

[macmanus]

[Crucial]

That Otago back line is quite tasty and the pack more than enough to supply them ball.
For CM good to see Roigard back.

[Grooter]

@macmanus Oliver Haig that big fella has took his chances in pre season & is rewarded

[macmanus]

@FakatavaAllBlack he was very impressive

[Smudge]

Planned a visit to friends with Auckland a while back and by chance it coincides with this game. So me and my chum (we flatted together in Dunedin when we were at uni) are off to Pukekohe for the first time. Should be a fun game with the team Otago has named.

[cgrant]

This is a very tall pack. Otago should win this game with ease. But who knows ? Maybe the CM nobodies would be on fire.

[Tim]

@cgrant Usually a low scoring and close game in Pukekohe at this time of year. Afternoon game though.

[Kiwiwomble]

only concern i have is Ioane hasn't been that involved in the pre season games so will be interested in how well he starts the season

but in general im happy with that team, people playing in their best positions and not just a series of utility backs, reserves also have a good kicker for the death and freedom who knows his way over the line

[Grooter]

@Kiwiwomble was a great moment when Freedom scored the match winner in last yrs opening game for us

[TheMojoman]

Very strong Otago side, Holland and Haig were excellent for NZ U20’s this year & great to see Nareki back.

[SouthernMann]

Here is a profile of Oliver Haig. Was born in Perth and grew up in England, moving to Dunedin at 14. So only been in the country for six years. Wouldn't be surprised if there is chat from Aussie or English media about Jim if he starts to perform well. Still has a fairly strong English accent. Seems a well spoken and smart bloke too.

[Duluth]

TV coverage of this match was hidden away. SS1 & SS2 showing women’s NPC instead..

[Canes4life]

Roigard on fire.

[Canes4life]

Thomas Umaga-Jensen is carrying bloody hard in this game.

[Grooter]

@Canes4life cam sure is

[Canes4life]

@FakatavaAllBlack hopefully he gets into the no 9 jersey for the Canes this year.

So much better than Perenara.

[Grooter]

Umaga Jensen

[Canes4life]

Get TUJ in the All Blacks already. Ffs.