Rugby: Heartland XV set for Australian Barbarians test

Wanganui v King Country rugby at Cook Garden. Photo / File.

The Heartland XV face the Australian Barbarians in Levin tonight in the second game of their internal tour.

Heartland XV head coach Grant Keenan has made just two changes to his starting 15, with captain Peter Rowe back from a one-match suspension to start in the No 7 jersey, Lance Easton (Thames Valley) starting on the wing, and James Goodger and Moss Doran onto the bench.

The Heartland team opened their 2015 campaign with a high-scoring game and lucky escape, after they held out a New Zealand Marist comeback to win 47-42 in Masterton on Saturday.

"We had a great hitout against New Zealand Marist on Saturday and, true to form, we knew they would come back at us hard, which they did," Keenan said.

"I'm really pleased we were able to create some great opportunities and that was reflected in the scoreline. First five Stephen Perofeta had an outstanding debut with 27 points (including a 'full house') which goes to show how talented this kid is.

"We also had handy performances from halfback Lindsay Horrocks, and locks Adaam Ross and Eric Duff who captained that first game.

"Today we're looking to stretch our legs a bit more and really to keep playing some good open rugby. The boys are excited to get up against the Australian Barbarians and I'm sure the Australians would like to avenge other results! But we're ready and we're looking forward to Levin."

Kickoff is at 5:30pm

Heartland XV squad v Australian Barbarians in Levin:
Mike Tambour, James Hemara, TK Moeke, Lemi Masoe, Lance Easton, Stephen Perofeta, Lindsay Horrocks, Bryn Hudson, Peter Rowe (c), Fraser Hammond, Eric Duff, Adaam Ross, Timaru Tafa, Cole Baldwin, Matt Fetu; Reserves: Jackson Donlan, Ralph Darling, Kurt Simmonds, James Goodger, Craig Moore, Zayn Tipping, Tim Priest, Moss Doran