Calling all first fiveeighths . . .
The Highlanders are on the hunt for a seasoned first fiveeighth to fill the boots of the departing Lima Sopoaga. Rugby writer Steve Hepburn takes a look at some contenders.
Ihaia West
Age: 26
West started out like the next big thing, but never really kicked on. A nice runner and not a bad boot but this level looks beyond him.
On the menu: pie and chips — satisfactory but nothing more,
Ben Botica
Age: 28
Was a promising player but then went overseas at 21 and has never come back. Looks talented and not a bad goalkicker. But very unproven in this environment and been out of the game at this level for too long.
On the menu: cold snails — too long overseas,
James Marshall
Age: 29
Always looked as though he had that one vital ingredient — time — when playing. A nice runner, decent enough defender and has some vision. Picked up a few injuries though and body may not last the distance. Club relegated in England.
On the menu: a decent mixed grill — not bad but not top of the line either,
Jimmy Gopperth
Age: 34
Was rumoured to be in the sights of the Highlanders last year. Been offshore for the best part of a decade. Looked the part when young but the years have taken their toll. Was never the most exciting player
On the menu: last Friday’s burnt toast — well past use by date.
Wharenui Hawera
Age: 24
Came out of Waikato and went via Southland to playing for the Brumbies. Has played some good games for the Australian outfit but looks a middle of the road player and nothing more.
On the menu: two minute noodles — will fill a gap but little else.
Mike Delany
Age: 35 Been at the Highlanders twice before, so why not a third time? Actually, there are plenty of reasons why not. Will be 36 next month, has always been quite a greedy player and body may not last. On the menu: trifle — too old and dated to appear at this dining table.
Quade Cooper
Age: 30 Why not? Whatever your take on Cooper, he can play. Perhaps some time in a disciplined and structured setup would suit the Wallabies pivot. At least it would be interesting.
On the menu: fried dodo — maybe it could work but in reality it simply will not happen.
Colin Slade
Age: 30
Another Highlanders retread. Was not a great success in his three years in Dunedin but class sticks and Slade is a top operator. Still young enough to offer an option. On the menu: beluga caviar — too expensive for this table.
Marty Banks
Age: 28
Banks has been a cult figure in the Highlanders before but that status hides his proven ability and class which helped the side make the playoffs in the three years he was in the south
On the menu: sushi — got a three year contract in Japan and is not going anywhere.
The rabbit
Age: ??
Call it pulling a rabbit out of the hat or taking a punt, but the reality for the Highlanders is there is noone who stands out as the complete answer as the Highlanders search for an experienced No 10 to replace Sopoaga. Good, quality and talented first fiveeighths are rare to find. Just ask the Blues. They are still looking for Carlos Spencer’s replacement.