Matatū name last squad for 2024

Matatū coaching staff have named their final team for 2024 to face the Manawa here in Christchurch tomorrow.

The team are looking to carry some momentum from their win against the Poua last week, with Assistant Coach Peter Breen reflecting on last week,

“We were thrilled with the performance we put out over the weekend – it was the one we’ve been seeking. It was cool to be able to play the rugby we’ve been striving to play. This week it’s been all about trying to get that same feeling. I think we benefitted from lighting quick ball, so that’s what we’re trying to replicate this weekend.”

The usual front three of Love, Ponsonby, and Rule start, with the ever-reliable Bayfield and Captain Bremner returning to locking duties after starting at number 8 last week.

The loosies remain Kendra Reynolds and Lucy Jenkins, with Kaipo Olsen-Baker back after a week off due to injury.

Di Hiini takes the number 9 jersey with Liv McGoverne wearing 10. The midfield is its usual formidable self with Brooker and du Plessis suiting up in 12 and 13.

Winnie Palamo earns a start this week, replacing Martha Mataele who sits this week out to manage an injury. She will be joined by Cheyelle Robins-Reti on the other wing and Rosie Kelly will direct traffic from fullback.

The bench this week sees a 6-2 split of forwards and backs, something Assistant Coach Peter Breen says is a luxury of having such versatile forwards on the roster,

“We’re pretty lucky with our forward pack, the girls can cover multiple positions so even if we do get injuries, we’re more than comfortable to be able to solve that problem. I think with this game in particular, we’re trying to match their [the Chiefs Manawa] energy in the forward pack.”

Matatū will round out their season at Ngā Puna Wai tomorrow afternoon with a 4:05pm kickoff. For your last chance to see the team in action in 2024, grab your tickets through the link below!