Rugby: Sole adds edge to Bay engine

Steamers coach Herb Schuler has announced his team to face Counties Manukau in a pre-season match at Ecolite Stadium in Pukekohe today.

Strong-running former Italian international Josh Sole has been selected at blindside flanker, giving the side another lineout option alongside the dual threats of locks Tim Bond and Keepa Mewett.

Impressive Tauranga Sports captain Carl Axtens has been named as vice-captain under former New Zealand Maoris pivot Willie Ripia, while Melbourne Rebels flyer Kimami Sitauti - who scored a wonderful solo try in last week's warm-up game against Hawke's Bay Saracens - has been included at fullback in a back three including Greerton Marist and Highlanders winger Tino Nemani and Te Puke powerhouse Junior Tofa Va'a.

The match, to be officiated by Chris Pollock, starts at 6pm.

Starting XV

1. Kane Hames, 2. Joe Royal, 3. Josh Hohneck 4.Keepa Mewett, 5.Tim Bond, 6. Josh Sole, 7.Kieran Black, 8.Carl Axtens, 9.Dan Devereaux, 10. Willie Ripia, 11.Kimami Sitauti, 12. Sam Beard, 13. Brett Mather, 14. Junior Tofa Va'a, 15.Tino Nemani Reserves: 16. Kalem Chan Boon, 17. Pingi Tala'apitaga, 18. Joe Tupe, 19. Matt Clutterbuck, 20. Samisoni Fisilau, 21. Nick Evemy, 22. Maru Henry, 23. Star Timu