Bono has the golden tonsils. Larry Mullen jun counts him in. U2 works because they are both in sync.
And that is what Otago are counting on again in the NPC quarterfinal against Waikato at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Friday night.
Millar had arguably his best game this season for Otago at the weekend.
He knocked over five conversions and three penalties, and ran 60m to charge down a kick and score to help set up a record 51-17 win over Auckland.
He was up front and shining like Bono, whereas for most of the campaign, he has been banging on the drums at the back of the stage like Larry.
The 23-year-old has been doing the basics well.
Plugging the corners. Kicking goals. Getting the ball out wide to Jona Nareki and company.
Functional, not flash.
The bouquets have been tossed at the Dylan Pledgers, the Lucas Caseys and the Christian Lio-Willies in the team.
But coach Mark Brown said Millar was doing what they needed him to do.
"The drummer sets the tone and the beat," Brown said.
"And that’s sort of Cam — he’s an unassuming guy.
"Unassuming, but very decisive in setting the tone and getting us around the field and pulling the trigger when we need to.
"Cam’s a real good footballer, and so we’ve just asked Cam to be himself, which he has, and he’s definitely improved.
"His starting game for us was at a high level and he’s maintained a high level.
"But he’s just sort of adding little bits to his game to make him more complete.
"And he’s just like everyone. He’s turning up with a smile on his face and playing like that as well."
What is not to smile about?
Otago have won five straight to secure a home venue for the quarterfinal and the semifinal if they can get past Waikato.
They have secured the Ranfurly Shield for the summer.
And their last home game attracted nearly 6000 spectators. They have regained some support following some lean years on the field.
Waikato have not been that impressive this season.
They produced a horror show against Southland to lose the Ranfurly Shield in round five.
They unravelled against Bay of Plenty in round nine, and three of their six wins have been by one point.
But Brown is wary of what they offer.
"Look, they’re a good side. I’ve got a lot of respect for Ross [Filipo] and what he’s done with his group for a few years now.
"They’re a side that have got some pretty seasoned professionals leading them around the track, and with some young, exciting talent in behind.
"So they’ll be a formidable opponent, no doubt about that.
"But, in a way, it’s quite appropriate that we have drawn them to play, because we haven’t played them [this season]."
• Otago openside Slade McDowall fractured a bone in his arm during the game against Auckland and will miss the remainder of the season.
