Four changes for NPC side to take on Taranaki in Semi Final

Building momentum is the overarching theme for Canterbury as they look to lock in a spot for next week’s Bunnings NPC Grand Final.

First Five Alex Harford is the only change to the starting line up that beat Auckland in the Quarter Final, as Head Coach Marty Bourke looks for consistency and continuity in his side to play Taranaki in New Plymouth on Friday. “Harfy put in a man of the match performance against Taranaki earlier in the year, he’s been really consistent and taken his opportunities when they’ve come his way, so we expect him to do that again on Friday.”    
         
Harford comes in for the injured Fergus Burke, who injured his achilles against Auckland.

Experienced prop Joe Moody’s fit, so returns to the bench, alongside energetic youngster Tahlor Cahill, who replaces the injured Dominic Gardiner, while Joel Lam comes in for Willi Heinz at reserve halfback.
“There’s been a real edge at training this week,” said Bourke, “there’s a few bumps and bruises as expected for this time of the year, but the boys know what’s at stake.”

“We haven’t played our best rugby yet, but we’ve earned the right to be here fighting for another week, so we’re looking to get it right this week.”

Rameka Poihipi, who was exceptional stepping into first five due to the early injury to Burke last week, has again been named as second five, offering a second pivot option to Harford. Experienced Mitchell Drummond will lead the backline from halfback, while Dallas McLeod whose performances have also been building over the past few weeks will start at centre. Speedsters Manasa Mataele, Solomon Alaimalo and Chay Fihaki will combine as the back three, with lightning quick Blair Murray covering the outside backs.

Daniel Lienert-Brown, George Bell and Oli Jager will take the fight to the Bulls up front, with Zach Gallagher and Sam Darry packing down in the second row. Workhorse Billy Harmon will lead the side from the blindside, forming a formidable trio with Tom Christie and Cullen Grace in the loose.

Kick off is at 7:05pm on Friday and will be broadcast on SKY Sport.