The Pakuranga premier backline will have some added fire power on Saturday with Sione Fifita donning the 11 jersey for the first time.

Sione has played professionally for Counties Manukau, been part of the Crusaders and Tongan International squads.

“Sione is back from injury and we are excited to see him unleash his potential on the Auckland competition,” said coach Boof.

He’s one of a number of changes to the premier side after the first up loss to Grammar TEC two weeks ago. Most changes are injury enforced, though Boof said they are also looking at building depth.

“We need to build depth in our locks in particular. So while Marc (Holzer) was one of our best in the opening game, he moves into the loose forwards and Carter will start in the locks.

“Jack (McGregor) comes onto the bench in line for his debut, we want to give him time at prem level in order to grow and become a starting option for us. He has something you can’t teach in being 6 foot 10 and has been working hard.”

Elsewhere, regular premier development first five-eighths Cameron James takes the number 10 jersey to cover injury, Boof saying his experience will be key in the playmaker role, while fresh from a round one debut off the bench, Lisiate Pau’uvale starts at tighthead prop and Sam Beere comes onto the bench.

The long weekend Easter break meant the season opened before having a week hiatus.

“Whilst it came at a funny time after only one round it was a blessing in some ways. It allowed us to get some more conditioning in, nurse some injuries and polish detail.

Boof said with both teams coming off the back of a round one loss, there will be added intensity at Marist tomorrow.

“We’re expecting a tough, physical contest – they will be physical up front and have some big backs, that hit hard.  

“I’m looking forward to to seeing how in particular some of our young players back up after their first taste of premier rugby. Consistency is key and that is what we hope our young men provide this week,” said Boof.

The Pakuranga team is,

1. Lepani Tuifagalele
2. Moses Hafoka
3. Lisiate Pau’uvale
4. Carter Hackett
5. Cam Finefeuiaki
6. Marc Holzer
7. Daren Uili
8. Niukula Osika
9. Jardyn Tamati
10. Cameron James
11. Sione Fifita*
12. Pasqualle Dunn - captain
13. Tane Dunn
14. Paula Maama
15. Antonio Popoali’i

16. Gafatasi Su’a
17. Finbar Simpson
18. Sam Beere
19. Jack McGregor*
20. Matt Gorrie
21. Steph Tabaillou
22. Desmond Spooner
23. Jayden Bell

*denotes debut

Article added: Friday 14 April 2023