Nelson and Counties optimistic

The sight of All Black Rico Gear scampering around Pukekohe today will only underline the growing feeling that, regardless of the result of today's Division Two semifinal, both Nelson Bays and Counties-Manukau will have a highly interesting 2006 to look forward to.

Gear will be having just his third game for Nelson Bays before they transmute into Tasman with their merger with Marlborough next year, and many feel that Counties may be one of the few bright spots in the much-discussed but little-admired extension of the NPC.

There is also the small matter of Hawke's Bay in next weekend's final - opponents whom Counties have had trouble beating in recent times.

But, longer-term, there is a ripple of anticipation that Counties may have a future second to none among the promoted unions. That is down to the strength of the game in Counties youth grades and schools, the talent that resides there and the return of Counties stalwarts like Errol Brain (to the coaching staff, alongside new coach Kevin Putt) and rugged lock/loose forward Kristian Ormsby. There have been rumours - as yet unsubstantiated - of other 'name' players heading to Pukekohe.

Attracting back Counties players who have leaked away to other unions to pursue higher honours, unlikely for a member of a second division team, should have a flow-on effect and keep talent in the area.

That's the theory, anyway. What will help even further will be the credibility of a win against Nelson in a match they start as favourites.

- HERALD ON SUNDAY