By WYNNE GRAY
Northland first five-eighths James Arlidge has got plenty of time. And he uses it well.
His composure on the ball has impressed in his debut this NPC season as a loan player from Auckland, while away from the rugby field, the 22-year-old is busy with his commerce and
property studies.
This week he has made three trips north for training and tonight's game against Wellington, as he balances the student and sporting lives, which have grown this year.
"I suspect he is a bit weary, but he does not back away from any commitment," coach Bryce Woodward said.
"He listens well and questions, and we have been delighted with the way he has worked for us."
Arlidge, loaned halfback Ben Meyer and the pack will be critical components for Northland if they are to undo Wellington, the defending champions.
Northland need to play a tight, controlled match, allowing little time or possession for the Wellington back four, whose skills can cut up any team.
The messages have been going to the Northland forwards this week, with decisions by Meyer and Arlidge paramount to building pressure.
Arlidge has shown fine punting and goalkicking in the Air New Zealand-sponsored NPC, continuing the good impression he made when pulled from obscurity into the Blues to help their Super 12 campaign.
"He is working more on running the backline and that is coming. He has time, and if defences hang off him, he can put pressure on as well," Woodward said.
Arlidge has not thought much about rugby next year. He is a player within the Blues' franchise boundary and those issues have to be sorted out by provincial officials.
"I am just thinking about Northland now because we believe we are just one game away from doing well," he said.
"We have trained well, and have to keep the pressure on and make sure their outside backs have reduced time with the ball."
Each week Arlidge makes the trip north, though he does have company - Meyer, Aidan Vince, Hayden Wright, Tim Henwood, Sam Pinder and Brad Miller all make the same sacrifices and journey.
Arlidge said: "Playing in Auckland is always a dream for youngsters, but we are getting a chance with Northland.
"Everyone there has been so welcoming."
2001 NPC schedules/scoreboard
NPC Division One squads
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