Thousands of the Bay of Plenty Steamers passionate supporters will be tuned into Sky Television on Friday (22 August 2008) when “their” team takes on Northland in Whangarei.

Only the most fervent Blue and Gold followers could have imagined the start that the Bay Steamers would make to this years Air New Zealand Cup. After three rounds of the Cup - the Steamers unbeaten start to the season has put them in second place, just one point behind leaders Wellington.

Steamers Head Coach Kevin Schuler has made just one change in the starting line-up against North Harbour. Hooker John Pareanga, who sat on the sideline with injury last weekend returns to the team. The Steamers rake was in dynamic form in the first two games, scoring the only try against Tasman, and the first touch down of the match with Counties Manukau.

There is a small injury doubt concerning Solomon King, who grabbed a double against North Harbour. If King doesn’t start the match - the Steamers will lose nothing with his replacement. New Zealand Under 20 representative Luke Braid will move from the bench to run onto Okara Park with the starting fifteen.

The success of the Steamers is reflected in the Air New Zealand Cup point scoring statistics. Kicking machine Mike Delany sits in fifth position with 24 points courtesy of four penalty goals and six conversions. Last weekend against North Harbour Mike was on fire slotting all six kicks at the goal.

Dynamic Number 8 Colin Bourke is the teams everywhere man who can make expolsive breaks, from anywhere on the paddock. He sits equal with Wellington’s Hosea Gear in the try scoring stakes with four touchdowns.

The Steamers will expect nothing less than a determined challenge from the Sky Blue’s, who are another side with long and proud tradition, in the top echelon of New Zealand provincial rugby. In front of their home supporters at Okara Park - Northland are a team that make their home ground a fortress for visiting teams.

The two sides for the 7.35pm kick off on Friday evening, have met on fifty previous occasions. The team from the far north winning 30 encounters; Bay of Plenty 19 and one drawn. Last year Northland prevailed 24-17.

Team named to drive the Taniwha to extinction...
1 Joe Savage, 2 John Pareanga, 3 James McGougan, 4 John Moore, 5 Culum Rettalick, 6 Solomon King, 7 Tanerau Latimer (captain), 8 Colin Bourke, 9 Jamie Nutbrown (v/captain), 10 Mike Delany, 11 Jason Hona, 12 Nigel Hunt, 13 Cory Aporo, 14 Lance MacDonald, 15 Zar Lawrence.
Subs:  16 Dean Elmiger, 17 Arden David-Perrot, 18 Aiden Kuka, 19 Luke Braid, 20 Josh Hall, 21 Paula Asaeli, 22 Teu Nafe.