Buller busting to lift cup

Buller co-coach Craig Scanlon says his side is ready to upset Wanganui in the Meads Cup final.

It is that inner belief that has got the country’s smallest union to the Heartland Championship’s big party.

It will however be a mountain to climb as the defending champions beat Buller 28-0 just three weeks ago, scoring four tries.

Scanlon’s immediate reaction after the loss was they wanted to take Wanganui on again.

‘‘We were keen to right a wrong. We were much better than the score indicated,’’ he said.

Buller head to Whanganui with a steely resolve, he said.

‘‘We want to celebrate what we have done so far and create a bit more history.

‘‘The boys are certainly up for it. We will do what we have always done and empty our tank.’’

It would be a fantastic finish for Scanlon and Craig ‘Bug’ Neill, who have jointly coached Buller for a decade. They are great mates away from rugby and their chemistry and ability to build an enviable team and culture, have seen Buller rise from the easybeats of New Zealand provincial rugby to something special.

Scanlon said his co-coach deserved much of the credit.

‘‘Bug is easy to get on with, he is such a great character.’’

Scanlon said two factors would get Buller home.

‘‘We need to bring our best defensive effort and be accurate at the tackle. Our decision making and composure will also be a key.’’

Talisman James Lash will also need a big game

The left-footed first-five is the championship’s top points scorer but can also bring a creative X-factor.

Centre Joshua Tuidriva will also need to fire along with fullback Anthony Tailua, who is dangerous with ball in hand.

Buller can also rely on plenty of experience in the pack including three centurions, openside Luke Brownlee, along with props Phil Beveridge and Logan Mundy, while No 8 Daniel Hytongue had had a great debut season that saw him named in the NZ Heartland side.

Scanlon said last time they met Wanganui had managed to rattle them somewhat with some different plays.

‘‘Wanganui will no doubt have something new up their sleeve but we will just have to adjust quickly.’’

The popular coach known as ‘Bart’ also admitted he was somewhat lucky to see a second Buller final.

A month after the loss to Mid Canterbury in 2014 he suffered a dozen heart attacks in quick succession.

‘‘I was lucky, they managed to fix the plumbing up and I am fine.’’

It will however take a mighty effort to beat Wanganui, who are on a 17-game unbeaten streak.

The defending champions have carved out an impressive record since the Heartland Championships began in 2006.

Wanganui have only twice missed making the Meads Cup final in 11 years and they are shooting for their fifth title.