Flocking to intimidate big city boys

The Magpies are urging fans to pack McLean Park for tomorrow's Ranfurly Shield defence against Auckland. Photo / Paul Taylor

The Magpies are hoping for a black-and-whiteout during tomorrow's Ranfurly Shield defence against Auckland.

The team is calling for a cauldron of passionate Hawke's Bay fans to turn up dressed in Magpies colours, to warn the visitors they have entered enemy territory.

In a "call to arms", the Hawke's Bay Rugby Union wants to pack the park with as many Bay supporters as it can for the crucial clash.

HBRU commercial manager Jay Campbell said Auckland have not experienced a full house at McLean Park with the shield on the line and will be in for a shock.

"We want them to know they are coming to shield country, and taking the prized log o' wood will be no easy task."

A joint initiative between the HBRU and Napier City Council will see 2000 tickets offered to the public for only $10 each. The tickets will go on sale at 9am today and are available for purchase only at McLean Park.

"The NCC fully understand the importance of holding the Shield, both the economic benefits and the fantastic goodwill it creates in the community," Mr Campbell said.

"Auckland is a very strong side and the team will have to play very well."

The big city boys hold the Ranfurly Shield record of 16 successful challenges and 148 defences.

The Bay now sits third on the list for defences with 55.

"We hope every man, woman and child in Hawke's Bay will support the team in this monumental challenge.

"The last 13 months have been very special. We've had a good tenure to date and we want that to continue," Mr Campbell said. "We don't want those Aucklanders taking the shield. No one wants that."

The Magpies will look to defend the shield for the 11th time since taking it from Counties Manukau in last year's 27-21 thriller at Pukekohe.

-Hawke's Bay vs Auckland: tomorrow evening. Kickoff is at 7.35pm, McLean Park, Napier.