Rugby: Rotorua's rugby stars of the future ready for international clash against Manly Marlins

Rotorua's rugby stars of the future will get a taste of international experience when they take on an under-11 Manly team.

U11-CBOP team co-coach Pearce Mikaere says his side will take on the Manly Marlins at Puarenga Park tomorrow."The boys have been training really hard and they're looking to put on a 60-minute display of running rugby," Mikaere says.

Mikaere says there has been a lot of competition within the team to secure playing spots.

"It's been great to see the team putting in the hard yards at training. All of them want to play. It's a great opportunity for them to show off their skills and gives them a chance to push for higher honours."

The U11-CBOP team squad are made up of players from three Rotorua clubs: Marist St Michael's, Waikite and Whakarewarewa.

He says he does not have a lot of information on the Manly side, but every time the visitors have toured Rotorua, they have been strong, so his team will not be taking their opponents lightly.

"We know it's important to do the basics right. It's all about taking the opportunity when it presents itself as well as keeping the other side under pressure and capitalising on their mistakes."

The game gets underway at 2.30pm at Puarenga Park.

The team
Jordy Gibbs, Mason Barry, Marley Viti, Sililo-Paraone Pirika, Israel Roimata, Silas Teao
Nirai Raureti-Mikaere, Tawhiri Hepburn- LeComte, Heretaunga Mikaere, Harrison Beazley
Maui Old, Bayden Turuta, Tyson Hansen, Jacksyn Hill, Lincoln Ropitini, Rewi Bryant, Curtis Fredrick, Riki Sakeo, Angus Weir, Kaya Kaiou, Awatere Douglas-Karauna.

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