Blues set for clash

THE Blues are amped and ready to ensure that the Easter break will be no holiday for the visiting Hurricanes when they clash in the Sky Super Rugby Aotearoa match at Eden Park tonight.

The second placed Blues, with two wins and two losses in their opening four games, will begin the second round of the competition following their 31-16 victory over the Canes in the opening match in Wellington.

Coach Leon MacDonald has made several changes after the disappointing loss to the Chiefs, although most of the Blues squad from that win in Wellington last month will take part this weekend.

The only “new faces” from the opening match are veteran TJ Faiane, who gets his first start and young lock Sam Darry, who made his impressive Super Rugby debut against the Highlanders.

Darry comes in for captain Patrick Tuipulotu, who has not recovered from a shoulder injury received in last weekend’s match.

Loose forward Tom Robinson, who made a significant impact off the bench against the Chiefs, has earned his first start of the season and will captain the side.

“The performance overall against the Chiefs was disappointing, especially at setpiece, our lack of accuracy and discipline. The players who made an impact off the bench or have been working hard on the training field have earned their chance.

Do you remember the first try in Super Rugby Aotearoa?

“Sam gets another start at lock after he impressed us earlier in the season and Tom will lead this team in place Patrick,” said coach Leon MacDonald.

Sam Nock gets his opportunity to start at halfback for the second time this season with Jonathan Ruru expected to add real thrust again from the reserves.

The front row continues the inter-change of All Black props with Ofa Tuungafasi welcomed at home in front of friends and family for his 101st game in blue, and Karl Tu’inukuafe, both starting.