Hill still needs time for Waikato

By CHRIS RATTUE

Waikato coach Ian Foster has resisted changing his starting line-up against Wellington, despite the surprise opening-round defeat against Taranaki.

Derek Maisey retains his first five-eighths spot, meaning goalkicker Loki Crichton remains on the wing for tomorrow night's second round clash in Hamilton.

Foster said: "We're still easing David Hill back into the frame ... He needs game time to give him confidence on his ankle.

"At this stage of the year we are still getting our systems working. Consistency is the best way to achieve that."

Foster is looking for better ball security and more energy on attack against Wellington, who scraped past Southland in round one.

Dave Duley replaces lock Sean Hohneck on the reserves bench.

As expected, Jonah Lomu is missing from the Wellington line-up for a second week. Scott Waldrom replaces Kupu Vanisi, whose final season in NZ has ended because of a shoulder injury. Jason Spice returns at halfback after recovering from a knee injury, and Kas Lealamanua replaces Tony Coughlan at prop.

Waikato: Todd Miller, Soseni Anesi, Regan King, Keith Lowen, Loki Crichton, Derek Maisey, Isaac Boss, Steven Bates, Scott Couch, Jono Gibbes (capt), Keith Robinson, Chresten Davis, Deacon Manu, Scott Linklater, Michael Collins. Res: John Pareanga, David Briggs, Dave Duley, Wayne McEntee; Rhys Duggan, David Hill, Dwayne Sweeney.

Wellington: Christian Cullen, Lome Fa'atau, Ma'a Nonu, Paul Steinmetz, Sireli Bobo, David Holwell (capt), Jason Spice, Rodney So'oialo, Scott Waldrom, Thomas Waldrom, Kristian Ormsby, Ross Kennedy, Tim Fairbrother, Luke Mahoney, Kas Lealamanua. Res: Jason MacDonald, Neemia Tialata, Ross Filipo, Iva Motusaga; Piri Weepu, Riki Flutey, Pita Alatini.