Rugby: Steamers' resources stretched

BIG MATCH: Johan Bardoul (with ball) is one of the Bay of Plenty Steamers players missing with injury today against Taranaki.PHOTO/GEORGE NOVAK

The Bay of Plenty Steamers will look to get their tails up today in Rotorua after a promising start to the ITM Cup.

The Steamers have recorded their best start to a Cup season in recent years - with three wins from their opening five matches - and will face defending ITM Cup champions Taranaki today at 5.35pm at the Rotorua International Stadium.

The Steamers have a lot to play for in the encounter as they chase valuable competition points in the ITM Cup Championship. They are also looking to build some form ahead of their Ranfurly Shield challenge next weekend in Hawke's Bay.

Bay coach Clayton McMillan was forced to make a couple of changes to the starting side for today's clash but was confident in his side's depth.

"A high injury toll is stretching our resources, but the positives are that we have a lot of faith in our squad, and the less experienced players get another taste at this level and an opportunity to cement a position for themselves moving forward," he said.

"The team showcased their potential last week in a good win against Counties Manukau. But we understand there needs to be continual improvement and consistency of performance in order to compete with the likes of Taranaki who we encounter [today]."

McMillan is originally from Rotorua and will enjoy a homecoming of sorts today, during his first ITM Cup match in Rotorua in charge of the Bay team.

"This day will no doubt be a highlight for me and I know the Rotorua community will come out in force to support the boys as they take on the current [ITM Cup] Premiership champions."

The teams will not only be playing for competition points but also the Peter Burke Trophy.

The pre-match curtain raisers feature a match between the All Blacks Sevens team and Australian Sevens side, as part of their series in Rotorua.

At halftime in the main game, the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union will acknowledge the recent success of the Rotorua Boys' High School 1st XV and their new national title.

Match tickets are available from i-Site Rotorua until 4pm today. They will also be available from the gate.

The gates will open at 12.30pm.