QBE Harbour have made only a couple of changes to their line-up as they take on a Manawatu side that whilst above them on the table, will hold no fears. Manawatu have beaten bottom of table Northland and Southland in their opening games before losing last week in a Shield challenge to Waikato.
Back into the starting line-up comes lock Gerard Cowley-Tuioti with Bryn Gatland into the pivot and Mark Telea coming in on the wing.
"Our forward pack have been working hard all season, and I have been pleased with what they have been bringing" says Steve Jackson "They continue to front and will again need to be physical against the Turbos on Saturday"
"Chris Vui is out of the 23 this week as he picked up a finger injury last week. He is seeing a specialist at present and provided the scans come back all clear I would expect to see him for next weeks clash"
"We have opted to pair the Bryn twins together again in our halves as we believe that combination will go well against their counter-parts. Bryn (Gatland) brings an around kicking game that should work well for us this week."
"We have created plenty of chances this season already - we just need to finish these off. Last weekend was no exception and whilst our defensive effort was great (Harbour held Wellington try-less) we need to convert at the other end when we sniff the opportunity"
Mark Talea is the other change, with his inclusion allowing for Tevita Li to move across to his favoured wing position. "Mark has been in great form and he now gets an opportunity to bring that from the start".
The QBE Harbour side will wear its alternate strip and players will wear their club socks in celebration of the Harbour Club Day.
As well as the Women’s curtain raiser Harbour Hibiscus v Manawatu Cyclones the afternoon will include a junior club parade, the J4 inter club relay at half and our Cheers Volunteers - a thank you to all of those who give so much to the grass roots.
16. Byron SMITH - Takapuna
17. Adrian SMITH - Massey
18. Karl TU'INUKUAFE - Takapuna
19. Glen PRESTON - Marist
20. Hapakuki MOALA-LIAVAA - Massey
21. Chris SMYLIE - Massey
22. Matt McGAHAN - Western Pioneers
23. Daniel HILTON-JONES - North Shore
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