Media Release 14 July 2010

The Bay of Plenty Steamers build-up towards the 2010 ITM Cup continues in Napier on Friday (16 July 2010), when they play long time rivals Hawkes Bay in Napier.

The two sides have a rivalry that dates back to 1922 – with Hawkes Bay providing a ideal test of where the Steamers are at, as they prepare for the thirteen match ITM Cup campaign.

Steamers Head Coach Sean Horan and Assistant Coach Steve Miln, have continued to try out various combinations, in the team that has been announced to face Hawkes Bay.

Two of the Steamers heavyweights will return to the side in Napier. Dynamic number eight Colin Bourke will pick up the captain’s mantle, with 2009 All Black Tanerau Latimer likely to take to the field from the bench.

Nick McCashin, who shared the kicking duties in the Steamers victory over Manawatu last week, will start at fullback. The second term Steamer brings a utility role to the side, and is equally comfortably at first five or further out in the back line.

One player who made a real impression in the Manwatu victory was Grant McQuoid, who is back in the Steamers ranks after a sojourn overseas. His block busting runs against Manawatu were a feature of the Steamers first serious hit out.

Another to impress in the first preparatory match was Lance MacDonald, who spent all of last season on the sideline with injury. His reward came when he scorched down the sideline for his sides fifth try in the 35-10 victory.

The Steamers encounter with Hawkes Bay is the Bay teams second ITM Cup preparatory match, with the final hit out to be played against Taranaki in Whakatane on Friday 23rd July 2010.

Bay of Plenty Steamers v Hawkes Bay @ Napier - 2.35pm Kick Off

1 Joe Savage 2 John Pareanga 3 Josh Hohneck 4 Luke Katene 5 Culum Retallick 6 Luke Andrews 7 Sam Cane 8 Colin Bourke (captain) 9 Chad Tuoro 10 Phil Burleigh 11 Jason Hona 12 Grant McQuoid 13 Ben Smith 14 Lance MacDonald 15 Nick McCashin.
Reserves: Simon Chisholm, Ted Tauroa, Aiden Kuka, Tanerau Latimer, Dan Waenga, Brett Mather, Toby Arnold, Chris Elvin.

Head Coach: Sean Horan Assistant Coach: Steve Miln
Manager: Ross Everiss Physio: Paul Cameron
Strength & Conditioning Coach: Murray Pedersen
Asst Strength & Condition Coach: Abby Galenzoski
Analysis and Defence Coach: Paul Feeney

For Further Information Contact
Ross Everiss Bay of Plenty Steamers Manager
0274 487 013