Magpies mix with sponsors

Returning Magpie Zac Guildford, pictured during the sponsors' function in Taradale last night. Photo / Paul Taylor

The Magpies officially kicked off their jersey draw last night with a sponsors evening at the Duke of Gloucester.

Hawke's Bay Rugby Union commercial manager Jay Campbell said without the help of sponsors they wouldn't be able to put a team on the field.

Hawke's Bay Today drew number 15 which All Blacks Israel Dagg and Zac Guildford are likely to wear.

Hawke's Bay Today editor Andrew Austin said he was delighted to be sponsoring the Magpies fullback.

"It's a great opportunity to market the Hawke's Bay Today brand.

"We are always right behind our home team," Mr Austin said.

Assistant coach Danny Lee spoke of a desire to retain the Ranfurly Shield for the entire season and win their respective competition.

"Making it all the way to the final and narrowly losing twice is unacceptable.

"We want to go one step further this year," Lee said.

The Magpies will welcome the return of former All Black Zac Guildford from France this season.

Guildford said it was great to be back home and he had fully recovered after a late-night attack in France last September.

"Some guy just pushed me from behind and ran away. He fractured my eye socket. It was pretty unfortunate.

"It's good to be around friends and family again."

He said the emphasis on set piece and kicking in the Northern Hemisphere made for a dull style of play.

"I took for granted the way the Magpies play the game.

"We like to throw the ball around and have some fun, which doesn't happen over there (in France).

"I think I play much better rugby under this brand."

Guildford said, although he had close friends in the Highlanders, his heart would be with the Hurricanes this weekend.

"I have played for them, so I'd love to see the Canes win. I think they will be too strong."

-The Magpies' first Ranfurly Shield defence of the season is on July 9 at McLean Park, Napier, against Wairarapa Bush.