Parsons ahead of historic match
Rugby, we understand that. But you’ve got to realise that international players playing in a jersey as prestigious as the Lions’ are going to bring a different intensity.
“There’s no expectation on us. All the expectation is on them. It’s great for us. We’re going to play our game and back our skills in front of 40-plus thousand and family and friends at Eden Park – it’s going to be a special time to step up and perform in a big game.”
The Blues’ assistant coach Al Rogers, a Welshman, is in a unique position himself, and he recognises the need for a positive start.
“As they’ve already alluded to – they’re going to have to match fire with fire and we’re going to have to do the same thing,” Rogers said of the Lions. “Obviously I followed them as a young fella. I’m well aware of the history and the passion that goes behind the team and what the jersey means to the players so to have the opportunity to be on the other side and have that challenge is very, very special.”
Blues midfielder Williams has been passed fit which means TJ Faiane drops to the reserves bench and Melani Nanai out of the squad.
It will be a special occasion even for Williams, who has just about seen and done it all as a league and rugby player. Certainly it will be for Luatua and Charlie Faumuina, who will be playing their final home games as Blues players before moves overseas.
But Parsons, his eye on the bigger picture as usual, said a victory in such a unique match couldn’t be used to vindicate a Blues season which will again end once the round-robin does.
“We’re not using it as a redemption . . . we’re a Super Rugby team and we want to be in the Super Rugby playoffs. That is something we haven’t achieved.
“We have to get better in our own conference to give ourselves the best opportunity.
“This is a one-off fixture. To get a result would be great but redemption would come next year if we get into the finals.”