'Spare parts' team in line for a trophy

Border's lock Simon Hillis has done well in both his Wanganui Development and Wanganui Heartland assignments this season. PHOTO/FILE

By their very nature they have to be the "spare parts boys" - the team which exists to give Steelform Wanganui wider squad members valuable game time while also fostering prospects for the future.

But despite their transient line-up, the Wanganui Development XV is proud of the team culture they have cultivated. They're now firm favourites to bring at least one trophy to their union's display case when they meet Horowhenua-Kapiti B in the RDO Cup final in Levin this afternoon.

The Development XV had a strong start to their campaign thumping Horowhenua-Kapiti 50-18 at Cooks Gardens on August 24, although coach Shane Ratima is reading little into that result.

"I think it's going to be a different match-up to what we had against them last time. They've had some boys come back from their Heartland team."

After that game, Development were beaten 38-14 by the Manawatu U20's, although it should be noted the strong side is just one step below the ITM Cup squad and chock full of academy players.

They then staged a great second-half comeback at Cooks Gardens against Wairarapa Bush B, winning 32-29 after being down 29-10 going into the wind.

The roll continued with a 50-8 away victory last weekend against Wellington Maori Colts to secure a spot in the final.

The team usually don't know the line-up until Thursday afternoon, after the Heartland squad is decided, and even then some players may be unavailable.

However, Ratima said he and assistant Cornel Mason had worked hard to establish relationships which also meant guys like No 8 Jack Hodges, reserve back Liam Richardson and reserve forward Cole Paki had been able to slot in quickly after joining late.

Players like reserve prop Lucas Puts, flanker Faalafi Vave and lock Simon Hillis have also been in and out of the Heartland team and did well at that level.

"We were under no illusions [constant changes] would be the case coming into that coaching role," said Ratima.

"It's been good having lots of those players to call on. People want to play with the Development team, rather than see it as a cop-out after club rugby."

A family funeral means hooker Junior Tume will be a big loss for today's game, as is Robert Lavin joining the Heartland squad. The team has brought in Ratana's Hawea Meihana to fill the role.

A welcome return is "class player" Bradley Graham in his comeback match after being knocked out against Horowhenua-Kapiti on August 24.

Kickoff in Levin is at 12.30pm.