Whakarewarewa seek 'flowing style' at Greerton

The message has gone out - Whakarewarewa must play with a more "flowing style" if they are to win in the team's first away match of the Baywide Premier competition, according to head coach Joe Savage.

Whaka take on Greerton Marist at Greerton Park tomorrow - looking to record a second straight win after last weekend's narrow 24-20 scalp over Te Puna.

While Greerton, a weakened side from last season, will be aiming to bounce back after losing 54-12 against Te Puke on Saturday.

Despite the positive first result, Savage warned much improvement was needed and focus in this week's training was on creating "more options and opportunities" and cleaning up on discipline after two players were sin binned in the team's last outing.

"We need more of a solid platform. We've looked closely at discipline - not as individuals but as a defensive unit. We need to get off that line quickly and get in their faces," Savage said.

"I want to see a more flowing style on the pitch with more options available and more opportunities created. We need to try and utilise our backs as much as possible and trust in our leadership on the field.

"Greerton aren't as strong as last year but that doesn't matter. That would be our downfall - if we were complacent and don't prepare properly. We can't go in thinking it's an easy game, it's not a done and dusted result. Rewards will come but only if we work and play well as a cohesive unit."

Savage said he was likely to field the same forward pack that competed strongly against Te Puna but there was still room for changes in the midfield and backs.

"At this early stage in the season there's room to chop and change a bit to give players an opportunity to impress - that's important," Savage said. "I'll be looking to rotate and I am quietly optimistic that whichever players are put in will perform."

Meanwhile Rotoiti, second in the table as it stands, aim to continue their impressive start when they take on Te Puna at Maramatanga Park tomorrow.

The Rotorua side are full of confidence after a 51-7 home win over Poroporo last weekend.

"This week we just been drilling our systems a bit more and moving forward," head coach William Royal said. "Te Puna will be hurting off that close first defeat so we have to put on pressure straight away. If we communicate well and focus hopefully it will be a second win on the board for us."

Bay of Plenty rugby union Premier and Premier Development fixtures:
(Premier Development kick-off 1pm / Premier kick-off 2:45pm)

Saturday, March 25 - Week 2

Greerton Marist v Whakarewarewa, Greerton Park.
Te Puna v Rotoiti, Maramatanga Park.
Tauranga Sports v Rangataua, Tauranga Domain.
Mount Maunganui v Te Puke Sports, Blake Park.
Poroporo v Paroa, Poroporo Park.
Whakatane Marist v Arataki, Rugby Park,