ITM Cup: Steamers go in targeting two goals

Carl Axtens, the Steamers No 8, will want to continue his good form against Waikato in Hamilton tonight. Photo / Getty Images

Tonight's match against Waikato in Hamilton is more than just another opportunity for the Bay of Plenty Steamers to get one over their major rivals.

That's because the result could have ramifications for next weekend's ITM Championship semifinals.

If the Steamers can get up, and notch a four-try bonus point as well, they have a chance of making the semis. For that to happen, Southland, North Harbour and Otago all need to lose without a bonus point in matches over the next three days.

It is an interesting situation, but Steamers assistant coach Rodney Gibbs is not worrying too much about other results at this stage. What he knows is they must beat Waikato.

"It definitely has that Chiefs rivalry about it, both being from the same region. The history of Waikato v Bay of Plenty is a key - just that big brother, little brother syndrome," said Gibbs.

"It brings the best out in players and everyone is looking forward to the challenge. There is always going to be some rivalry there that puts an edge on it."

A positive result tonight would give the Steamers three wins for the season. But Gibbs knows that is just one factor in analysing the overall ITM Championship campaign.

"Results are obviously important from an absolute win/loss record but the growth we have seen in the boys and as a team is more important.

"It is unfortunate we dropped the game against Northland, which I think was a real shame. We are still growing and the boys are starting to show they are getting comfortable at this level."

Last Saturday's 33-16 win over Otago was a season highlight. Four of the five tries were scored by the backs, which backs coach Gibbs enjoyed.

"It was really good for their confidence. The bounce of the ball for once went our way but you make your own luck. The real self-belief we have been trying to instil, let the boys relax and play rugby and express themselves."

Gibbs was thrilled with the second-half effort into the wind, when they kept Otago to just six points.

"It was really pleasing that the boys played the tactics we discussed and they did it accurately ... , There was some hard graft through that half and we spent some time on our own line, and then to come away from there and turn some opportunities into points was very pleasing."