If the Otago Whalers are looking for some respite after the tough task of facing Canterbury last weekend, they will be sorely disappointed today.
The Whalers host the Southland Rams, who were beaten finalists in last season's South Island premier competition.
Otago coach Ray Fitiao lamented a lack of preparation last week but was happy with the signs he saw against Canterbury.
After going into the last game on the back of just four training sessions as a squad, the Whalers had relished the opportunity to train together again this week, he said.
Fitiao has been forced into a couple of changes due to injury, but is hoping for ''a better effort and more cohesion as we become a team''.
Captain Isaac Misky will lead the Whalers, and his direction of the team from hooker is critical.
Joe Bywater, whose skill on attack is matched by his strong defensive presence, will also be key to the cause.
Southland defenders will have their hands full with Tama Apineru's ability to unsettle defensive patterns with a strong fend and sharp footwork, and Ian Blake will likely be called upon again to subdue the Rams attack.
The Whalers would be wise to make efforts to shut down twins Matthew and Daniel Low, both of whom have the tactical awareness and skills to open the game up.
Also on the Whalers' radar will be Taina Tamou, who is a strong runner of the ball and can create havoc through the middle of the field if given a little bit of space.
Fitiao, who acknowledged Southland was a formidable opponent, said the Whalers would need to go into the contest with the right attitude and plenty of energy.
Both sides will be fired up for the contest at the Kensington Oval and will be looking to chalk up their first win of the season.
Each win is vital as the competition will end in a straight final on September 19.
Otago Whalers
To play Southland
Kail Spooner, Dave Lipanovic, Tama Apineru, Emile Hughes, Jordan Tua, Brogan Jackson, Ben McKerchar, Ian Blake, Isaac Misky (captain), Sam Brame, George Fisi, Joe Bywater, Adam Tapsell. Interchange: Joseph Wrathal, Hagan Free, Vila Apuula, Josh Liua'ana
