Well, the NPC commences this weekend, and I for one am looking for a Wellington victory this season, and for Kapiti-Horowhenua to finally move their arses beyond the third division! I take some consolation in the fact that at least Kapiti are the current holders of the Lochore Cup. It's not the Ranfurly Shield but it's enough to make a lowly third division team supporter feel good about his team.
For those who don't know, the NPC is the National Provincial Competition, annually contested between New Zealand's provincial rugby unions. For years - as long as I can remember - it has been played in three divisions, but this will be the last year. The format's being changed as of next year, and I can't say I'm happy about it, but I never like change.
By the way, a mention to www.virtualnpc.co.nz - stacks of fun. I'm Axver there, if anyone else here is playing.
First week fixtures:
Division One
Waikato vs Taranaki
Southland vs Canterbury
Northland vs Wellington
North Harbour vs Auckland
Otago vs Bay Of Plenty
Division Two
Wanganui vs Manawatu
Counties vs Poverty Bay
North Otago vs East Coast
Hawkes Bay vs Nelson Bays
Bye: Marlborough
Division Three commences next week.
For those who don't know, the NPC is the National Provincial Competition, annually contested between New Zealand's provincial rugby unions. For years - as long as I can remember - it has been played in three divisions, but this will be the last year. The format's being changed as of next year, and I can't say I'm happy about it, but I never like change.
By the way, a mention to www.virtualnpc.co.nz - stacks of fun. I'm Axver there, if anyone else here is playing.
First week fixtures:
Division One
Waikato vs Taranaki
Southland vs Canterbury
Northland vs Wellington
North Harbour vs Auckland
Otago vs Bay Of Plenty
Division Two
Wanganui vs Manawatu
Counties vs Poverty Bay
North Otago vs East Coast
Hawkes Bay vs Nelson Bays
Bye: Marlborough
Division Three commences next week.