Robinson hits right notes for the Blues

By WYNNE GRAY

Selection certainty has delivered a different Mark Robinson to this season's Super 12.

The 26-year-old halfback has fronted for all but one game - when he was injured - and has been one of the Blues' most consistent performers.

Not bad considering Robinson was being lined up at one stage to wear the Highlanders colours because his opponent on Friday, Byron Kelleher, was due to head north to the Blues' patch.

It was a franchise swap which stalled and, even though he was an All Black to Europe and Argentina late last year, Robinson was uneasy about this year.

For a number of years he had duelled with Steve Devine, with neither staking a definitive claim for the Blues' halfback job.

Robinson got the start this year, Devine damaged his ankle again and that pecking order has stayed all season.

Now Robinson faces Kelleher in a New Zealand derby which could decide if either side makes the final four with both halfbacks playing for their original franchises.

"It has crossed my mind, I could have been playing in a different jersey this week," Robinson said.

"It does create a bit of humour, I suppose, but nothing more than that."

Kelleher could not be reached for comment, the Highlanders staff choosing to protect the halfback from any diverting reaction close to the game.

"I have got a decent run this year and that was going to be the whole objective about changing to Otago," Robinson said. "It was all about getting a lot of football.

"Fortunately, I have got that with the Blues. The team is starting to play like a team and I have been getting a leadership role with a number of others.

"Mentally, knowing I am going to start is a huge plus, it allows me to construct my week."

There is no grand plan to confront Kelleher at every stage of Friday's game.

Kelleher, if not the best halfback in the country, was close to it, and the target, said Robinson, was to be able to measure himself and compete against the best.

"Byron has a strong pass. He is very powerful and breaks the advantage line. He is playing very impressively.

"But Friday will not be about any personal battles or anything like that, I am sure we will both be doing what we can with the way the game goes."

Both teams have yet to be announced. The Highlanders fly to Auckland today, a day earlier than usual, as they look to settle and focus on Friday.

The winner will take a huge step towards the playoffs and also earn the Gordon Hunter Memorial Trophy, in memory of the former detective who coached both franchises.

"That trophy would probably mean more for us because of Gordon's background, but our main focus will be on winning Super 12 points," coach Laurie Mains said.

If the Highlanders win they will break an unwanted but growing record.

It has been 26 years since an Otago-based side has won an NPC or Super 12 match at Eden Park.