Topp Cup holder South Otago will attempt to make it three from three when it hosts Central Otago at the Balclutha Showgrounds today.
The southern team will be captained by Simon Grant, who was back in top form in the latest round of club rugby after returning from overseas.
South Otago's forwards will be a strong and fit unit led by prop Blair Young and Tim Howie up front.
James Edgar and Kerrod Baldwin should hold their own at lineout time, with the loose forwards - Grant, Mala Saimoni and Hayden Baird - set to dominate.
South Otago's backs, led by halfback Josh Botting, will be dangerous with the ball in hand, while first five-eighth Stu Melville is a potent force.
There is plenty of pace out wide, with the big surprise being the choice of South Otago High School First XV star Matt Whaanga, likely to play at centre.
Rhys Harrold, usually at second five-eighth, will move to fullback, and will have excellent support from Tyler Bichan and Kane Tueissen, both real speedsters.
Others, if given a run, who might make their presence felt include Mark McKenzie and Joey Herbert, both players from the Clinton club.
- Norman Woods
