Rugby: U-20s find form at right time

A solid week's training has paid generous dividends for the New Zealand Under-20 team ahead of next week's IRB Junior World Championship in Auckland.

The squad looked sharp and assured in a surprisingly one-sided romp against the Chiefs Development side at Blake Park yesterday at the end of a nine-day camp based at Mount Maunganui.

The 47-19 win, played out in front of an excellent crowd basking in the autumn sunshine, is a massive confidence boost ahead of their opening match against Samoa in Albany on Monday.

Last Friday the New Zealand Under-20s struggled to impose themselves in a loss to the Blues Development side but there was a dramatic improvement yesterday.

A fired up forward pack, including Bay of Plenty prospect Troy Callander, ripped into the Chiefs from the start, with the first of their seven tries coming in the opening minute.

They led 21-7 at the break and impressed with their high-tempo game and skill factor. First-five/fullback Damian McKenzie from Waikato was the standout back with Taranaki openside flanker Lachlan Boshier a dominant force in the loose.

The Chiefs Development team had little time to prepare for the match but some of the players in contention for Steamers jerseys made use of the chance to shine.

Captain Carl Axtens had a fine game at No 8 and looks a serious candidate to lead the Steamers, while halfback Jono Kitto, lock Beau Williams and winger Tino Nemani also impressed.

Axtens is pleased with the talent coming through and how Bay of Plenty players are getting recognised.

"I think it is really promising for the Steamers this year. We have a lot of boys playing Super Rugby so it puts the Bay in really good stead for the ITM Cup."