Mills Albert Wellington Lions name side for Home Opener
Mills Albert Wellington Lions name side for Home Opener
After an impressive opening round win against Auckland, the Mills Albert Wellington Lions are ready for their first home game against last years’ NPC victors, the Taranaki Bulls.
Last week’s 29-21 win was their third in a row against the home side at Eden Park, earning them a bonus point and retention of the Fred Lucas Memorial Cup.
“We’re proud of how our boys performed last week. Taking on Auckland at Eden Park always provides a good challenge, and to start the season with a win like this is a testament to the work the team have put in during pre-season.” Said Head Coach Soakai.
The return of All Blacks, Billy Proctor and Ruben Love, marks some changes to the side this week, as the Lions look to nab their second win of the season.
Julian Savea moves to the wing, as Proctor comes back into the fold in the midfield. Love starts at fullback, with Tjay Clarke looking to provide impact from the bench.
After an impressive hit out last week, PJ Sheck moves into the starting line-up in the front row. Caleb Delany returns from injury to provide locking cover on the bench.
Sione Halalilo also joins the 23 this week, looking to come off the bench and provide impact in the forward pack.
The Mills Albert Wellington Lions take on the Taranaki Bulls in Round 2 of the Bunnings Warehouse NPC this Sunday, 2.05pm at Porirua Park.
Wellington Lions team to take on Taranaki:
- Xavier Numia – Oriental-Rongotai
- Penieli Poasa – Oriental-Rongotai
- PJ Sheck - Tawa
- Hugo Plummer - Tawa
- Teofilo Paulo – Hutt Old Boys Marist
- Brad Shields - Petone
- Du’Plessis Kirifi – C – Northern United
- Peter Lakai - Petone
- Kyle Preston – Old Boys University
- Jackson Garden-Bachop – Northern United
- Pepesana Patafilo - Tawa
- Peter Umaga-Jensen - Wainuiomata
- Billy Proctor – Marist St. Pats
- Julian Savea – Oriental-Rongotai
- Ruben Love - Wainuiomata
- Leni Apisai – Paremata-Plimmerton
- Yota Kamimori - Stokes Valley
- Siale Lauaki - Tawa
- Caleb Delany – Old Boys University
- Dominic Ropeti – Oriental-Rongotai
- Sione Halalilo – Oriental-Rongotai
- Callum Harkin- Old Boys University
- Tjay Clarke - Petone
Unavailable for selection:
Harry Press, James O’Reilly, Matt Proctor, Riley Higgins, Losi Filipo, Mitch McLeod.