Blues roll out big guns for Moana on double header night

The Blues have named a strong starting line-up with nine All Blacks for Saturday’s Super Rugby Pacific clash with rivals Moana Pasifika at Eden Park.

The side is largely unchanged with inspirational captain Patrick Tuipulotu leading the team on what is a special night for the club with the Blues women hosting Matatu in the Super Rugby Aupiki final after the derby.

Second five-eighth AJ Lam will play his 50th Super game alongside star All Black centre Rieko Ioane in the midfield.

Fixture

Super Rugby Pacific

Blues

36 - 17

Full-time

Moana Pasifika

All Stats and Data

There are two changes to the side with hooker Ricky Riccitelli returning from injury, while prop Angus Ta’avao replaces Marcel Renata, who has been ruled out.

“Moana is a big game for us and we will work hard and prepare the same way as we do every week,” said coach Vern Cotter.

“Last week’s win was a real team effort. We made improvements in some key areas and are expecting an even better performance this weekend. We know we can still improve a lot and that’s exciting.

“We’re looking forward to the challenge on Saturday in front of our home fans who always give us a big lift. We’re excited to see them out in force again to support the boys and then our women in the Aupiki final.”

Head-to-Head

Last 4 Meetings

Wins

4

Draws

0

Wins

0

Average Points scored

39

18

First try wins

100%

Home team wins

50%

Blues team to play Moana Pasifika, Saturday 4.35pm, Eden Park:

1. Joshua Fusitu’a (28)
2. Ricky Riccitelli (42)
3. Angus Ta’avao (73)
4. Patrick Tuipulotu (c) (115)
5. Josh Beehre (18)
6. Anton Segner (29)
7. Dalton Papali’i (89)
8. Hoskins Sotutu (70)
9. Finlay Christie (61)
10. Beauden Barrett (35)
11. Caleb Clarke (70)
12. AJ Lam (49)
13. Rieko Ioane (119)
14. Mark Tele’a (74)
15. Corey Evans (20)

Reserves

16. Kurt Eklund (66)
17. Mason Tupaea (2)
18. PJ Sheck (3)
19. Cam Christie (4)
20. Adrian Choat (47)
21. Taufa Funaki (28)
22. Harry Plummer (81)
23. Stephen Perofeta (71)