The BOP Mafia website is the place for action at the moment, especially the forum. We even made it into the local paper although they managed to get the website URL wrong. Yesterday we received an email from Janine :-

I too agree with the rants from Clive from Auckland who has been a Bay of Plenty Supporter for 50 years.

A Bay supporter for many years and BOP Rugby wife myself am disappointed at the display that these players are putting out on the field, they lack confidence in each other, they lack performance and lustre they just don't have the wanting of a winning team.

Back in the 80's/early 90's when my husband played and captained BOP the commitment, loyalty, heart and performance of those players was second to none. They played because of their love for the game of rugby, not because they were receiving any financial gain, they trained bloody hard 2-3 times a week whilst all holding down full-time jobs, running businesses and raising their families. They trained hard and played hard both on and off the field.  The team camaraderie was fabulous to be a part of.

They didn't get a bonus if they won, all they got was a pat on the back and a cheer from their loyal supporters and the crowds that used to attend their games whether it be home or away.

These players from the now need to have a little bit of heart, they need to dig deep (grow some balls as my husband would say) and take a good look at why they are playing the game and if they can't find the answer they need to step back and let the players who want to give it their all take the lead.

Go back to the basics BOP Steamers, believe in yourselves, and don't be too proud to call in some old heads to give you some advice!