Cory Aporo is obviously his own biggest critic and a tough one at that.
After what appeared to be a strong performance for Whakarewarewa in their latest Baywide win, the 23-year-old, who has been in the Super 14 Chiefs' wider training group this season, declared himself a little unhappy.
"I'm struggling
- I'm a bit off the pace. Fitness wise it's all there, it's just getting some games under my belt," he told the Daily Post at Puarenga Park.
Aporo had just completed his third game for the Baywide leaders. It was also just his third game of rugby since last year's Air New Zealand Cup season with the Bay of Plenty Steamers.
From the sideline, there was no apparent rust on Aporo's fit and fresh looking frame.
His passing was swift, his defence sure, and he got around the paddock exceptionally well, handling twice when his centre partner Tofu Pomale scored Whaka's bonus point try.
After most of the summer training with the Chiefs, Aporo is obviously relishing getting off the training paddock and on to the field of play.
"[Not playing's] a frustration at times - you do all the hard work and you just want to reap the benefits by playing a bit of club footy, but in the end it's a bit of a job now, so I can't really complain," Aporo said.
This is his second season back in his home town and he's keen to have a big one.
"Just keep doing what I'm doing and hopefully the rewards will come in the end."
Aporo was one of the Steamers most consistent performers in 2006. He started in all 11 games and was considered unlucky to have missed a full Super 14 playing spot. Initially he was considered a centre in partnership with Jeffrey Ierome but finished up at second five, where he's currently running for Whakarewarewa.
The former Rotorua Boys' High School student has no particular favourite position, but it's likely the No 12 jersey will be his when the 2007 Air New Zealand Cup kicks off on July 28 in Christchurch.
"I'm not really fussed ... I'm just glad to be on the field."
