"We're a little bit on the underdog side with coming together on the day," Mant said. "I think this one is important, after we got the first up win [against BOIs], but this will determine our destiny."
With Northland's new ITM Cup coaches saying they will be looking in depth at the Harding Shield, Mant said his players were aware of the need to come together to help push each other's case for higher honours.
"The attitude of our guys is they see the Harding Shield as a chance to show their case, but also that it's hard to shine if you don't play as a team."
Mant's view on his players is one which is shared by his opposing coach Mark Seymour.
"We've got talent across the park," Seymour explained. "And, the Harding Shield is an important concept and for players trying to thrust themselves forward for [Taniwha] ITM Cup and show their wares.
With regard to the sort of game play to be expected, both coaches said conditions would ultimately dictate how they would attack each other.
Mant said he was grateful to have the services of returning Northland ITM Cup players Matt Wright and David Morgan.
He added the inclusion of Morgan would give his side some more tall timber in the lineouts, which could prove beneficial with showers expected. However, Morgan's inclusion would be negated with the return of fellow ITM Cup player William Whetton for Whangarei.
Seymour said his side was almost decided pending a few physio assessments after the weekend's club rugby matches.
Mangonui and Bay of Islands continue their Harding Shield campaigns later this month with a match in Kerikeri on May 22.
Whangarei:
Joe Reuben, Karl Furey, Matt Wallis, Peni Kitekiaho, Troy Cullen, Jordan Olsen, Mark Bennett, Roy Griffin, Reuben Wright, Jono Lawson, Ethan Crutcher, Brett Murray, William Whetton, Beau Dickins, Mac Sykes, Scott Lewis, Ume Sosita, Vili Tahitu'a, Star Timu, Saxon Samuels, Iwi Hauraki, Troy Gilbert, Sione Kite. Unavailable or injured: D. Ormsby, D. Carpenter, K. Vette Welsh, T. Landsdowne.
Rodney/Northern Wairoa:
Dean Kingi, Ray Beamish, Suli Leiataua, Paddy Joe Atkins, Angus Evans, Shane Neville, Cole Campbell, David Morgan, Matt Matich, Mitchell Fleming, Travis Larsen, Willy Fotofili, Tane Fotofili, Tane Takulua, Shane Tetzlaff, John Luke Whitehead, Sione Fonua, Mulis Taukiavea, Jye Tau, Jonny Allison, Matt Wright, Joseph Glamuzina.
