The Bay of Plenty Steamers are back in town this weekend for another home game v Waikato at the Tauranga Domain.  

This season, Waikato are three from four wins but have struggled in recent games, losing three straight. 

The Steamers, meanwhile, have played limited rugby in recent months, with their only competition game since October 2 being their 33-32 win over Wellington at Rotorua International.  

It's been a long time coming, but Saturday will mark a milestone achievement for Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, who will play in his blazer game after 15 appearances for the side.  

"There is definitely some excitement in the air. Many of the boys can't wait to play rugby on our home turf after what feels like a really long time," says Head Coach Daryl Gibson. 

"We are also happy for Te Toiroa and his blazer game. We are sure this will be a proud moment from him and his family." 

There is also the fantastic news that the match will be open to the public for the first time since the Bay's season opener v Tasman back in early August.  

Under COVID 19 Alert Level 2, bubble restrictions have been lifted at stadiums for ticketed and non-ticketed events. Spectators still need to maintain 2-metre physical distance from people they don't know, scan in on arrival, wear face coverings where possible and follow all other contact tracing and hygiene protocols. 

Tickets are available to purchase online only on the Bay of Plenty website here. 

A popup vaccination tent will also be available for anyone wanting to get a first or second shot. The BOPRU welcomes anybody not yet vaccinated to get their jab for a safer and freer New Zealand.  

The BOPRU are also excited to support Farmstrong, who will be in attendance on game day. Farmstrong is a nationwide wellbeing programme for the rural community whose aim is to help rural communities live well to farm well. 

Our rural communities in the Bay of Plenty are a fundamental part of the region's identity, and we believe that farmer wellbeing is essential.  

Check out the Farmstrong website by clicking here to learn a bit more about their work and how you can get involved.  

Kick-off for the Steamers v Waikato is from 4.35 pm on Saturday 30 October and will be broadcast live on Sky Sport 1. 

Click here to download the match day programme.

Bay of Plenty Steamers vs Waikato 

1. Aidan Ross (C) 
2. Nathan Harris 
3. Jeff Thwaites  
4. Justin Sangster  
5. Manaaki Selby-Rickit 
6. Angus Scott-Young 
7. Veveni Lasaqa 
8. Nikora Broughton 
9. Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi* 
10. Lucas Cashmore 
11. Joe Webber 
12. Lalomilo Lalomilo 
13. Emoni Narawa 
14. Leroy Carter 
15. Junior Matautia 

16. Te Ariki Te Puni 
17. Benet Kumeroa 
18. Tevita Mafileo 
19. Stan van den Hoven 
20. Semisi Paea 
21. Kohan Herbert 
22. Cassius Misa 
23. Sekuini Tanimo 

*Denotes Steamers Blazer Game (15th Game) 

Article added: Friday 29 October 2021