Manawatu can become a force says coach

Manawatu's results suggest that they have no right to a place in the new NPC Premier Division but coach Charlie McAlister vehemently refutes that notion.

Losses to North Otago and Nelson Bays have not diminished McAlister's conviction that, in time, Manawatu can become a force in New Zealand rugby.

In his view Manawatu will evolve from a selling province to a buying province once players see the opportunity that exists playing for a premier division team.

The key for him is showing players they will get a fair crack at making the Hurricanes by playing for Manawatu.

"We have a very good rapport with the Hurricanes coaches," said McAlister. "We would like to think our players will be looked at to play Super 12.

"Before, a player would get into their early 20s and be approached by one of the Super 12 base unions and pretty much be off. Now that we will be in the same division, we will get our chance to speak to that player and make our case.

"We have very good facilities here. We have a great stadium and support from the business community has been first class. It is up to us to front-up every week.

"We need some more players and we are trying to get them. But a lot of that is now in the hands of the agents."

McAlister accepts that life won't be easy for Manawatu next season but he is sure that the arrival of some new players will give his side a chance to be competitive.
- HERALD ON SUNDAY