Having already claimed the scalps of Northland, Coastline, Waikato Development and Wellington, the Bay of Plenty Lakers face what could be their toughest test yet against Otago today.The equation for this game, being played at Puketawhero Park in Rotorua at 4pm, is a simple one. The winners will clinch the New Zealand Rugby League Championship and earn the right to play the Premiership stragglers in a promotion/relegation game.
Being from opposite ends of the country Bay of Plenty and Otago know little about each other, besides the fact that they have both beaten Wellington by the same scoreline, 22-18.
Lakers coach Paniora Daniels said having had the bye last weekend the team had spent the last fortnight working on "the little things".
"Mainly being a bit more direct in our attack and tidying up our defence. I think it's going to have to be a big defensive effort.
"I think the conditions aren't going to be that great, so if we hold the ball, play direct and push through we should be all right," Daniels said.