Heavy work commitments last year took Pereira out of all rugby but he is back again and eager to help his team make the top four. He has the knack of finding the line, scoring eight tries in 2010, seven in 2011 and eight in 2012.
Fullback Corey McFadzean has returned after missing last season because of a broken wrist. He adds thrust to the backline that thrives on the attacking game.
Most of last year's squad is back, with the major losses being dependable No 8 Graeme Cashmore, who has transferred to Wellington, and loose forward Jeremy McKee, to England.
Last year, Alhambra-Union had a slump in mid-season when it lost five games in a row, but it came back strongly when top players returned to win five of the last seven games.
Last year: Sixth.
Coaches: Marty Gray (fifth year), Robbie Breen (assistant).
Gains: Witana Pretley (colts), Corey McFadzean (return from injury), Ben Pereira (return), Ben Johnson (overseas), Ben Main (overseas).
Losses: Graeme Cashmore (Wellington), Jeremy McKee (England).
Key players: First five-eighth Peter Breen, halfback Caleb Gray, prop Scott Manson.
Squad.-
Forwards: Scott Manson, Tom Viggo, Witana Pretley, Max Collett, Hagan Free, Harley Iraia, Mike Colville, Ben Trail, Sean Boult, Riki Davis, Ben Pereira, Ben Johnson, Gregor Croudis, Max Aitkenhead, Brandon Olsen.
Backs: Peter Breen (captain), Caleb Gray, Ben Main, Colin Davies, Tilli Puloka, Ben Qauqau, Noah Cooper, Corey McFadzean, Ken Hellier, Ratu Bishop, Zeb Quadroko, Paddy Smith.
