The Chiefs await a big business end of the season clash against the Brumbies this Saturday at FMG Stadium Waikato.
The game is highly significant, with the Chiefs vying for a spot in the Super Rugby playoffs. It is their first game back at home after the International June break and they will be looking to carry on the tremendous form that saw them run rampant in Suva against the Highlanders last weekend, winning 45-22.
In the backline, Anton Lienert-Brown is rested as part of his All Black commitments with Sean Wainui moving to his natural position of centre. Exciting winger Shaun Stevenson gets the chance to impress with a start on the wing. Brad Weber and Damian McKenzie link up in the nine and ten jerseys, while Solomon Alaimalo continues at fullback, after a highly impressive showing last weekend.
At this time in the season, every point counts in the fight for the playoffs and Cooper knows the crowd can help spur the team on.
“We can’t wait for the crowd to come and support us and help us get over the line and into the quarter finals. It’ll be great to have their vocal support this weekend.”
The Chiefs team to face the Brumbies is:
1. Karl Tu’inukuafe (13)
2. Nathan Harris (42)
3. Angus Ta’avao (14)
4. Michael Allardice (31)
5. Tyler Ardron (9)
6. Luke Jacobson (11)
7. Sam Cane (c) (104)
8. Liam Messam (176)
9. Brad Weber (54)
10. Damian McKenzie (63)
11. Shaun Stevenson (30)
12. Charlie Ngatai (53)
13. Sean Wainui (12)
14. Toni Pulu (31)
15. Solomon Alaimalo (23)
RESERVES:
16. Samisoni Taukei’aho (7)
17. Sam Prattley (7)
18. Jeff Thwaites (10)
19. Jesse Parete (6)
20. Lachlan Boshier (27)
21.Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi (14)
22. Marty McKenzie (16)
23. Johnny Faauli (16)
