Rugby: Sykes to bring need for speed

Halfback Mac Sykes has gained a deserved starting call-up for Northland tomorrow night. Photo / Michael Cunningham

The call has gone out to Northlanders to show up rain, hail, or sunshine as the Taniwha look to knock over the table-topping Tasman Makos at Toll Stadium tomorrow night.

Taniwha coach Derren Witcombe said supporters had got what they asked for with regards to more local players, now it was their turn to turn up and support the team.

"Just come and support us," Witcombe said. "We've had a big last couple of years, people have been crying out for local players and here's our chance for them to back us.

"It'd be great to keep the support coming because the guys are really trying to do the job, not only for us but the province."

Witcombe made a note that while Tasman were on top of the Championship table, on 18 points, and Northland were bottom, only 10 points separate them.

"It's a must-win for us, so the more the merrier. We've showed we can play the game but just need to eliminate the errors."

Six changes have been made to the starting line-up which faced Auckland last week, highlighted by Kamo halfback Mac Sykes making his first start for Northland.

"[There is a] good opportunity for Mac Sykes with his first start. We're looking at him to get clear the ball quickly, and we're expecting it'll be a fast-paced game," Witcombe said.

He added that a number of the changes had been forced through injury as the casualty list extends, with Jack Ram, Jone Macalai, and Roy Griffin out for the season. Joining the trio on the injury list are Rupeni Caucaunibuca (two weeks out), Bronson Murray (1-2 weeks), Owen Pihema (unsure), and Scott Vessey.

The match kicks off at 7.35pm.

Northland: Ross Wright, Matt Moulds, Will-Griff John, Tom Murday, Bryce Williams, Will Whetton, Dan Pryor, Jake Paringatai, Mac Sykes, Daniel Hawkins, Rene Ranger (c), Viliami Tahitu'a, Derek Carpenter, Whiria Meltzer, Mathew Wright. Reserves: Robbie Abel, Justin Davies, Dave Morgan, Ben Berridge, Sonatane Takulua, Ben Seymour, Warren Dunn.

Tasman: Siua Halanukonuka, Francis Smith, Sila Puafisi, Alex Ainley, Tevita, Cavubati, Shane Christie, Gary Redmond, Vernon Fredericks, Billy Guyton, Marty Banks, Mitchell Scott, Tom Marshall, Kieron Fonotia, Bryce Heem, Robbie Malneek. Reserves: Quentin MacDonald, Reuben Northover, Joseph Wheeler, Liam Squire, Kaide Whiting, Andy Symons, James Lowe.