Otago have confidence ahead of NPC

Loose forward Grant Webb believes Otago will buckle down for their opening NPC first-division rugby match against Bay of Plenty in Dunedin on Sunday.

Webb said Otago were sometimes guilty of being too loose in their 28-27 warm-up match win over Southland yesterday.

"We mucked around with the ball in our own half a bit, which we can't afford to do," the No 8 said. "We should have scored more points. But we're trying stuff and having a go.

"The backs were wanting to have a bit of a run around, so fair enough. But when the NPC comes, we just have to be a bit smarter overall and tighten up.

"We can still play some good running rugby, because Carisbrook's looking in great nick."

Otago's preparation for the NPC has been relatively limited compared to other teams, but Webb is confident the team will be ready.

"We've loaded up on training and information the last couple of weeks, so we'll taper off a bit for the Bay of Plenty game."

Otago coach Wayne Graham described yesterday's performance as messy.

- NZPA