Buller coach ponders tactics against Otago | Oamaru Sport | Surfing, Rugby, Soccer, Football, Cricket in Oamaru

It's no secret we play a wide expansive running game, and from what I hear, Buller have a good scrum and set piece, so the weather could play into their hands.Where do you target a team who have just won 116-3?

That's the question Buller co-coach Craig Neil is posing as his side prepares to line up against North Otago, a team on a high after their record-breaking Heartland Rugby win against East Coast last week.

Buller are coming off an opening home loss against Wairarapa Bush, and things won't be getting any easier for the Coasters as they travel to Oamaru for tomorrow's clash.

Neil said he had heard North Otago were fielding one of the better sides they've had in recent seasons, which became evident to everyone after hearing the result of last week's game.

"No matter what North Otago did last week, we still knew they were going to be good when we played them," Neil said. "They always have a good side, and I think the boys are looking forward to the challenge and measuring themselves against the North Otago boys."

The sides met in last year's Lochore Cup round robin which North Otago won 29-14 in Oamaru. Buller would need to play with a lot of heart if they were to come away with their first win tomorrow, Neil said.

"To be honest, it's going to be tough. They've obviously got a good team together this season, but we'll certainly be playing with a lot more heart than what East Coast did last week."

North Otago return to their Whitestone Contracting Stadium pad full of confidence. Coach Barry Matthews said the boys were excited to play at home, especially after their form against East Coast.

"The boys can't wait to play back at home, and it'll be great if there is a big crowd for the game," Matthews said.

"We're hoping heaps of people will come down and get in behind us. There is a lot of positive talk going on about the team around town which helps motivate the boys."

Both teams prefer a running style of rugby, but with heavy rain forecast for the weekend, Matthews said the game could be closer than most are predicting.

"It's no secret we play a wide expansive running game, and from what I hear, Buller have a good scrum and set piece, so the weather could play into their hands," Matthews said.

And considering the mucky rundown the stadium turf was given three weeks ago in the local club final, a soft playing field will more than likely play its part.

Prop Will Henry gets his chance in the front row coming in for Ralph Darling, while Eric Duff makes it into the starting XV ahead of lock Aisake Fonua.

Wing Greg Zampach will sit the game out with a groin strain, making way for Nova Soane. Ofa Fatafehi will cover Soane on the bench, with utility Lemi Masoe coming in for Roma Sefo on holiday.

The game kicks off at Whitestone Contracting Stadium at 2.30pm tomorrow.