Oliver has fond memory of 20th birthday clash

Otago captain Anton Oliver has fond memories of his side's last first division win against Waikato, at Hamilton in 1995.

It came on his 20th birthday.

Gordon Hunter was the Otago coach and Oliver was in his second season with the province when Otago won 20-15.

The game was played at Seddon Park because Rugby Park, the normal venue, was under repair at the time.

Today's match will be at the same venue, now WestpacTrust Park.

Otago have played 10 NPC games against Waikato at Hamilton for three wins and seven losses.

Oliver recognises that Waikato are strong opponents in the key first division clash that could decide either team's playoff chances.

"They have no discernable weakness," he said.

"They have close to an All Black backline and there is experience in the forwards as well."

All Black Carl Hoeft has aggravated a knee injury, which is also causing problems in his groin, and has been replaced by South African Marius Mostert at loosehead prop.

"He is likely to be out of action for a couple of weeks and could also miss the Bay of Plenty game," coach Laurie Mains said.

Otago have five games left, and a win at Hamilton would put them in good shape for a semifinal spot.

"We don't want to be scratching around trying to win the last one or two," Mains said.

"We want to build our momentum after beating Auckland and start putting our pattern on other teams."

But Otago have been hit hard by injuries.

As well as Hoeft, George Leaupepe, Byron Kelleher, Taine Randell, Kelvin Middleton and Tony Brown are unavailable.

Third-placed Waikato are one point ahead of Otago, but have played an extra game.

An area of concern for Otago will be the lineout against All Black giant Mark Cooksley in the Waikato pack. Flanker Jonno Gibbs is also skilled in the lineout.

Waikato have a pacy back four in Todd Miller, Roger Randle, Keith Lowen and Bruce Reihana.

Both teams have reliable goalkickers, with former Southlander David Hill kicking the goals for Waikato and Brendon Laney for Otago.

- NZPA