News

Taranaki wary of Auckland backlash

August 05 2008

Taranaki are expecting a backlash from Auckland after the defending champions suffered a shock 17-6 Air New Zealand Cup loss to Counties-Manukau in Pukekohe on Sunday.

It was the worst possible result for the amber and blacks who meet Auckland in Auckland on Sunday in a match that doubles as an Air New Zealand Cup clash and a Ranfurly Shield challenge.

And Taranaki can expect an Auckland side hellbent on putting things right.

Taranaki coach Adrian Kennedy said his side could expect a tough time.

"I've never known a weak Auckland side. They were outplayed on Sunday," he said.

"It was a topsy-turvy weekend with a number of upsets. After this weekend, all the big guns will come out firing."

Kennedy said he would find out more about the extent of injuries that forced hooker Laurence Corlett and openside flanker Scott Waldrom from the field during the North Harbour game on Friday.

"Laurence had a bump to the head. We'll know more later this week. I'm hoping he should be OK, but it's up to the doctor," Kennedy said.

"Scott will be assessed Monday. He came off after a tightening in the hamstring area."

Overall, Kennedy was happy with his side's first-up effort that saw Taranaki open up their Air New Zealand Cup campaign with a 20-13 win over North Harbour.

"The boys scored some good tries and defended very well," he said.

"They showed some good resilience and character to come through. It was a nail-biting final few minutes but they defended their line well."