“We’ve been lucky with injuries, touch wood, and I hope it continues this weekend,” he said.
“I’ll be looking to our senior players — Rei (captain Reihana Wyllie) Eru Wharerau, Willis Tamatea, Shayde Skudder (vice-captain) — and loosies Fawn White, Willis and Mekepio Brown for big games tomorrow.
“Hopefully we can win and deny Ngatapa points, which would set us up for the rest of this round.
“It’s also a good chance for any player who wants to make the Bay team to play the Coast on Queen’s Birthday Weekend to put their hand up.”
Ngatapa coaches Sione Ngatu and David McDonald have had to make changes to the team who beat Tapuae 54-0 last weekend.
Tighthead prop Campbell Chrisp (hand injury) openside flanker Jacob Samuel (concussion,) hooker Ihaia Kerr (calf) and lock Richard Webby () are out.
“Some are not far away from playing but we won’t take any risks,” said McDonald.
Despite the losses, Ngatu and McDonald have the depth to field a strong team.
Midfield back Oka Sanerivi and No.8 Pete Tamatea reurn after missing last week’s match and the squad has been strengthened by the inclusion of Lyle Crudis.
Crudis, who comes from Stratford, made his debut off the bench at first five last week and made a good impression.
“He looks to be a good addition to the squad,” said McDonald.
The Ngatapa pack have been in tremendous form this season, especially loosehead prop Semisi Akana who is leading the race for the end-of-season Most Valuable Player award.
Barring injury, Akana, who has 11 points, is a leading contender to be named in the Bay team to play the Coast at Tolaga Bay.
Akana has been smashing his way through would-be tacklers and takes some stopping.
“He has work-ons but he’s playing well enough to play at a higher level,” said McDonald. “He’s a powerful runner and he’s worked hard on keeping the ball alive more this season.”
Athletic openside flanker Jesse Kapene (10pts) and YMP hooker Skudder (9) are keeping the pressure on Akana for the MVP honour.
