Media Release 15 September 2009

The intensity of the Steamers Air New Zealand Cup campaign has stepped up another notch, with just six days between the Southland game, and this Thursday (17 September 2009) nights encounter with Tasman.

The thirteen rounds in this years Air New Zealand Cup, has turned the championship into a staying contest, rather than a sprint to the quarterfinals of recent years. The teams that will push on from the half way stage, to be in contention for semi-finals berth, will be the sides that have all their key players available.

While there are four changes to the Steamers starting fifteen to face Tasman, the return of a key performer in the forward pack, will provide a rock solid front row. Loosehead prop Joe Savage who was injured in the first game of the regular season, will reunite with John Pareanga and James McGougan.

A second change in the forwards will see a young talent start in the number six jersey. Zac Hohneck who is still eligible for the Bay Under 20 team, will form an attack trio with skipper Colin Bourke and Luke Braid.

In the backline Wayne Hughson has made the starting fifteen for the first time this season, with Toby Arnold replacing an injured Ben Smith at full back.

A huge plus for the Steamers this week, is to again play before their parochial fans at Baypark in Mount Maunganui. Since Baypark became the Western Bay headquarters of the Steamers a few years ago, the team has made the ground a local fortress – with all visiting teams having to fight all the way to secure points against the home side.

Steamers Assistant Coach Steve Miln said “The team always lifts its game at Baypark in front of their passionate supporters”. “”The Bay of Plenty community support that the Steamers have received in the last two years, plays a big part in the team playing with confidence and pride”.

“Playing in front of ten thousand loyal fans provides huge motivation to perform”. “The connection with the young fans, whether signing autographs after the game or making school visits, is an important part of the team culture,” said Miln.

17 September 2009 @ Baypark Mount Maunganui – 7.35pm kickoff

Toby Arnold, Nigel Hunt, Wayne Hughson, Phil Burleigh, Jason Hona, Mike Delany, Junior Poluleuligaga, Colin Bourke (captain) Luke Braid, Zac Hohneck, Culum Retallick, John Moore, James McGougan, John Pareanga, Joe Savage.
Reserves: Dean Elmiger, Josh Hohneck, Mark Burman, Matt Henwood, Josh Hall, Cory Aporo, Zar Lawrence.

Head Coach: Sean Horan Assistant Coach: Steve Miln Manager: Paul Feeney

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296