Villagers look to extend lead in title race

Ngongotaha's Mitchell Miller, centre, could be adding to his impressive goal tally when the Villagers take on bottom of the table Tauranga City today.

Ngongotaha won't be taking their away game with bottom of the table Tauranga City lightly, but will take the opportunity to rest some key players before taking on tougher opposition in the final weeks of the Loaded WaiBOP Premiership.

Top of the table Ngongotaha, who have not lost a match in 16 outings this season, are hot favourites to add to Tauranga City's woes tomorrow when they travel to Links Ave looking to increase their lead over competition rivals Cambridge and Matamata.

The Villagers have the best offensive and defensive record in the league scoring 80 goals in 16 matches, while only conceding 11.

Conversely, Tauranga City have lost all of their 17 matches this season, shipping 106 goals while only scoring seven.

Villagers skipper Dave Haua said while it was another must win match they did not want to head home to Rotorua with less than three points.

"It has to be a win, it would be pretty embarrassing even if we drew with them."

Haua said he was still struggling with a back problem and was eyeing up a spot on the bench for tomorrow's match.

But, he said this season Ngongotaha had much more depth in their squad that allowed them to play a few of the younger members of the club in the top division.

"It's a good change for us to rest a few guys on the bench, yes, it's also about the three points, but we'd also like to get the team back to 100 per cent before taking on Matamata and Cambridge in the next few weeks."

Ngongotaha coach Shane Davis said with five or six injuries depth was the key to their success.

"It's a good problem to have, so I'm not too concerned. They all train the same way so it's not hard to fit them into the first team."

But, he said Tauranga City at home would still be tough and their recent losing results were not too bad.

"They are getting better and the scores are a lot closer so they won't be a pushover," he said.

With six matches to go this season, Ngongotaha, with 46 points, can wrap the competition up if they win their next three matches.

Cambridge are second on goal difference over Matamata with 37 points and have a game in hand and look the most likely team to possibly spoil Ngongotaha's party.

Meanwhile, Rotorua United take on Cambridge FC in Cambridge at John Kerkhof Park tomorrow.

United are sixth in the league with 25 points and a record of seven wins, seven losses and four draws after 18 games.