Hurricanes to play Force

[no.8]

Hurricanes team named today for a Super 14 rugby match against Western Force here on Friday night:

1. Neemia Tialata
2. Andrew Hore
3. Tim Fairbrother
4. Jeremy Thrush
5. Jason Eaton
6. Chris Masoe
7. Scott Waldrom
8. Rodney So'oialo (captain)
9. Piri Weepu
10. Willie Ripia
11. Zac Guildford
12. Ma'a Nonu
13. Conrad Smith
14. Hosea Gear
15. Cory Jane
    Reserves:
16. Hikawera Elliott
17. John Schwalger
18. Craig Clarke
19. Thomas Waldrom
20. Alby Mathewson
21. Jimmy Gopperth
22. Tamati Ellison

[Elf1]

Fairly reasonable lineup, I think the Force will have a very good crack at em!!

[KenyaQuin]

Looks quite formidable..100kg+ Nonu at 1st Centre..not sure if he's played there all season but from what I've read he's been on form this year and will be a good test for JO'C.

Weepu should also give Chucky some good exposure.

Don't know enough on Zac Guildford but after looking at his profile on the 'Canes website (a nice website I might add), is another pre-20yr old rookie who played for the Kiwi U-19 World Cup winning team. Dane should be able to hold his ground no problem (so says me).

[jazza93]

this is gonna be a close game, both teams look good so far, JOC and Tatupu vs nonu and smith is going to be good to watch and it will be a huge test for them.

[no.8]

No Jerry Collins is big loss for the 'Canes. Without him they are the sugar 'Canes!

[jazza93]

They dont lose much with Masoe going into 6.

[James]

Mitch will put JO'C on the blindside wing again and have Tatupu tackle Nonu. Thats where Tatupu's league background will come in hand.

You have to admit the Hurricanes squad has gotten a long stronger since last year.

[The Lone Hydrangea]

Not sure on this line up without Collins. We are half a chance as long it doesnt rain.

[Burgs]

With respect, I think you're all kidding yourself!
Talk about David & Goliath, we have a chance, there is always a chance, but it would be the mother of all upsets for mine.
There's at least eleven in the starting fifteen vieing for a black jersey!
I'll be backing the boys all the way on the day but sheesh

[prop53]

yes Burgs there is always a chance and i hope this is our one.

[Burgs]

I save my grand acts of faith for match day P53

[The Lone Hydrangea]

The glass is either half full or half empty. Through adversity comes strength.
Jesus H Christ i should be selling used cars!

[Jehna]

I've missed you Burgs

I don't think it is too bad. To be honest, I thought we wouldn't stand a chance last week but our boys have shown they can pull it together even against a very good team. So i'm optimistic.

[prop53]

Yes but would you buy a used car from that man? (TLH) Think not i would take my chance with a half filled glass (lol)

[Elf1]

Exactly a David and Goliath match Burgs, but I still beleive the Force boys will ahve a crack at them. They have nothing to lose and possibly everything to gain.
I do not doubt for 1 second that it will be a very big task but a task I am sure they can give the best they can.