Coast expecting tough EBoP clash

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

RUGBY

Ngati Porou East Coast face traditionally tough Eastern Bay of Plenty tomorrow in Opotiki for the Basil Simpson Trophy.

Holders EBoP are renowned for their exciting brand of rugby, big forwards and talented backs.

But the Coast also have good men in key positions.

The side will be led by Waiapu’s Perrin Manuel at hooker, whose forward pack features hard-working lock Hone Haerewa of Tokararangi, Hikurangi’s Trent Profitt on the blindside flank and tough No.8 and Ruatoria City skipper Paddy Allen.

NPEC will have the ability to generate dangerous counter-attacks through Allen’s club teammate fullback Jayden Milner and left-wing Kris Palmer, the Hikurangi flyer.

“Eastern Bay are always tough; they beat us in 2012, the year we won the Meads Cup,” said Coast co-coach Troy Para, who was pleased with the way the squad came together last weekend in camp at Hicks Bay.