Rugby: Hastings' unsung heroes 50ths ideal incentives for top qualifiers

Hastings Rugby and Sports prop Angus McGuire (left) and utility back Tommy Agnew will both play their 50th games for the hosts today. Photo / Warren Buckland

Hastings Rugby and Sports premier team manager James Rosenberg was spot on when asked to describe Angus McGuire and Tommy Agnew.

"They are not the superstars of the team but they are there week in and week out and they will do anything for the side."

Prop McGuire and utility back Agnew are both poised to play their 50th games for Auto Super Shoppe Hastings Rugby and Sports when they host K9 Petfoods Clive in their Tui Maddison Trophy semifinal at Elwood Park today. Their milestones should prove a decent enough incentive for the top qualifiers to deliver a victory and secure a berth in next week's final.

The unsung heroes, who should get minutes off the subs bench, are confident the hosts will be triumphant and book their first final since 2012.

McGuire, 25, made his premier debut in 2015 after playing for the club's seconds the previous year. The APM Workcare physio is adamant this is his best season with Hastings.

"There is a different culture there this season and winning helps. There is also a lot of fresh blood."

The former Christchurch Boys' High School Third XV player pointed out one of the reasons Hastings have a 14-win, two-loss record this season is the fact players are prepared to take on any role which will contribute to the team's success - a similar approach to that adopted by defending champions WIT Napier Old Boys Marist.

"I prefer the loosehead prop position but I started at lock on the day we beat Napier Old Boys Marist," he said, referring to their memorable 40-27 victory seven weeks ago.

He agreed the Clive forward pack commands respect.

"We have to shut down their rolling maul and be accurate with our defence around the rucks."

Agnew, 21, is in his third season with Hastings Rugby and Sports after graduating from the Hastings Boys' High School First XV. While he favours the wing and fullback positions he has also played first five-eighth for the side.

The EIT electrical course student was excited about the vibe in the Hastings camp in the countdown to today's match.

"There's a pretty good feeling. Everyone is very proud and excited. It will be a tough game but it's one we can get up for. It's important we stick to our game plan, keep our discipline and play our game."

Clive coach Vaine Maui won't have the services of his Hurricanes outside back Jonah Lowe or Chiefs utility back Tiaan Falcon or Magpies wider training group loosie Josh Kaifa. But Maui is still optmistic.

"We trained well this week and the boys know to make the big dance we have to beat Hastings."

Clive tighthead prop Kereama Peni was buzzing when quizzed about the fourth qualifiers' chances of success.

"We had a pretty intense training and the boys were on point. We're all looking forward to it."

Peni, 29, will mark inform Magpies prop Jason Long.

"Jason and I have had our fair share of little battles over the years. He definitely shows why he is in the Hawke's Bay team with his mobility and he does his core roles well. It should be fun.

"I know there will be a lot of Clive supporters and it will be the same for Hastings. There will be a good atmosphere."

Teams:
Hastings Rugby and Sports: Ioane Ioane, Saifiti Saifiti, Timo Vaiusu, Star Timu, Mason Emerson, Ausage Fomai, Folau Fakatava, Josiah Tavita-Metcalfe, Fale Matamata, Marino Mikaele-Tu'u, Ben Hamelink, Jono Makris, Aleki Vuki, Jacob Devery, Jason Long. Substitutes: Angus McGuire, Paulo Nu'u, JJ Scales, Jardine Chung Ching, Jayden Rihia, Cole Eru, Tommy Agnew.
Clive: JJ Taulagi, Clerk Kopelani, Sasa Tofilau, Sebastian Visinia, Eti Collins, Tianua Poto, Bronson Hokianga, Lucas Goodin, Jesse Tuhua, Josh Eden-Whaitiri, Rocky Pohatu, Rana Huata, Kereama Peni, Sam Ebbitt, Etu Tuanaki. Substitutes: Tinirau McIlroy, Sam Purotu, Adam Jones, David Tuanaki, Moses Riley, Charlton Karauria, Brendon Pena.