Rugby: McQuilkin says stick to agreed game plan

King Country coach Noel McQuilkin is still searching for that elusive 80-minute effort after a "diabolical" second half in their 39-33 NPC win over Marlborough last weekend.

With a stiff breeze behind them, his players kicked the ball only once in the second half.

"I'm going to take a bit of paper out next time, stick it to the ball and write 'kick me please."'

He expected Manawatu would be hurting after losing two on the trot and be tough to bowl in Palmerston North today.

McQuilkin's Manawatu counterpart, John Fisher, acknowledged that his team desperately needed points after their 11-32 loss to Hawkes Bay.

The side have suffered through the loss of New Zealand Colts first five-eighths Ashley Barron - on loan from Otago - who fractured an eye socket after a head clash in the match with Marlborough a fortnight ago and could be out for another two weeks.

Manawatu, in fifth place, have a bye next week then play Bay of Plenty away, so points are vital.

In the South Island, Marlborough coach Kieran Keane is looking forward to sparring with an old mate when Bernie Kelly's Wanganui side come to town.

He succeeded Kelly as the national under-16 coach.

"We're improving as the competition goes. It was a pretty gutsy effort to hang in there [against King Country] because we were muscled out of it early on," said Keane, who has lost hooker Mark Stewart for the season with a neck injury.

Kelly said was pleased the hard work was paying off, reflecting on two wins and a couple of narrow losses so far.

"We're going to win just or lose just for the rest of the season. We're further ahead than I'd thought we would be."' Kelly said.

His only injury worry is the loss of Samoan back-up halfback Danny Tyrell, who needs a knee reconstruction.

In the battle of the cellar dwellers, Thames Valley or Mid-Canterbury will be anxious to get their first points at Thames.

The Valley have lost fullback Bevan Robinson - out for three weeks with concussion - while halfback Aaron McDonald cut his finger on a fishing trip and will be out of action for up to six weeks.

Captain and lock Bob Rigter plays his 50th game for the province this weekend.

Mid-Canterbury had the bye last week, and manager Gordon Keoghan said: "It's do or die this weekend."

Hawkes Bay, top at the start of the round, have the bye.

- NZPA