Esprit tested by Nonu's power

Wellington 43 Northland 27

It wasn't a triumphant return for David Holwell but at least Northland showed promising second-half signs in their NPC defeat against Wellington.

It shapes as another tough year for the Northlanders, a team of non-Super 12 players who will have to face many test-class players.

You can have all the spirit and dedication in the world, but it is a tall order dealing with the likes of Ma'a Nonu, whose power running and three tries put Wellington in control during the first half.

The 30-year-old Holwell, who left Northland after the 1998 season, has returned after a fine career for Wellington and the Hurricanes, and an eight-month stint with Irish club Leinster.

Northland started well on Saturday with Manawatu recruit Mike Rowe bursting down the right hand touch for a try. But Wellington quickly took control.

Captain Holwell was bumped off by his opposite Jimmy Gopperth as he scored Wellington's opening try. Holwell scored in the second half, thanks to a generous double movement ruling by referee Gary Wise. He also landed five out of six goals for a 17-point return.

Holwell said: "We had a perfect start but our defence didn't step up.

"We got caught looking in at the rucks and they threw long balls and got us on the outside. Then they caught us on the inside." Holwell - brought up on a Hukerenui farm - and his wife bought a 600ha beef farm just out of Whangarei last year.

He enjoyed life with Leinster in Europe's Heineken Cup, but not the Celtic League.

The charm of tiny crowds at remote and cold locations quickly wore off, so the Holwell's made a beeline for Northland.

Farm life involves 6am starts and nine-hour days, followed by training. There is little time or energy for gym work, but the farm keeps him fit.

"All but three of our guys work which can be good. It gives you balance in life. Our preparation is still as good as any other," Holwell said.

"Before the game I said, 'Believe in ourselves, back each other up, and have a go at these guys'.

"We're not here to just be competitive. We're here to win ... to rise to the level of the top teams. I wouldn't be playing otherwise."