Rugby: No excuses for Counties

By WYNNE GRAY

Counties Manukau have a solid list ready. Ideally, however, they want no excuses after their NPC match tonight with Northland in Whangarei.

Just in case though, they can point to factors such as the small, four-day gap since their last game, playing under lights and facing a Northland side farewelling Norm Berryman on his home patch.

Despite those issues, Counties are looking at a best-place NPC finish of sixth, compared to their ninth last season, while Northland are looking at the mathematical chances of ending anywhere between fourth and second-last.

On their day or night, either side have to be respected, but on their bad outings they can be very ordinary.

Counties will struggle without the injured Loki Crichton, Koula Tukino and probably George Leaupepe, though the midfielder could yet make the start.

Northland do not have the suspended Mike Storey or Samiu Vahafolau, but their pack were still powerful enough last week to repel the rugged Taranaki.

"There are lots of reasons for our new guys to play," said Counties coach Andrew Talaimanu. "We have some important goals for our team."

If a regular Friday night pattern continues, there will be a deal of kicking tonight. Without Crichton, Counties have transplanated another five-eighths, Phil Lewis, for his defensive prowess.

Northland will not countenance defeat.

"If the loose forwards can play well and we can bring players such as Robbie Johnson and Norm Berryman into the game we will do well, but it's all about maintaining possession," coach Bryce Woodward said.

Those who played so strongly against Taranaki deserved another chance. Targets had been reset after games against North Harbour and Auckland which got away.

An NPC finish as the best team outside the Super 12 franchises bases had to be the best objective.