Team for Final v Blues Named

It's grand final time! 

This week Matatū head north to the city of sails for the Super Rugby Aupiki final against NIB Blues Women at Eden Park on Saturday 12 April at 7.05pm. 

“It’s so exciting to be here, it’s a cutthroat competition, any team could have been in our position, so for us to be in the final is a real privilege,” says Head Coach Whitney Hansen.  

“The Blues have a phenomenal side, but so do we and that’s going to make it a really exciting game to watch.” 

Yet again, Matatū's coaching team have named an unchanged backline for this week's match.  

Maia Joseph takes on the role of halfback, with Hannah King once again starting at first five. 

Grace Brooker steps in as inside centre, supported by Amy du Plessis in the outside centre position. 

Chey Robins-Reti claims the left wing, while Winnie Palamo gears up to make an impression on the right wing. 

Kaea Nepia continues in the starting fullback position. 

In the forwards, there is one change to the front row this week – Pip Love will come into prop, replacing Marcelle Parkes who is ruled out due to injury. Georgia Ponsonby will keep her starting spot at hooker and Moomooga Palu will remain at tight head.  

Stacey Niao comes in at lock this week paired with Chelsea Bremner, while Captain Alana Bremner will jump back into her familiar number 6 jersey.  

Laura Bayfield will start at openside with Kaipo-Olsen Baker retaining her starting spot in the number 8 jersey.  

Whitney Hansen says she’s excited for the opportunity for her side to run out and showcase what it means to be a part of Matatū. 

“To be in this teams means being united, moulding and shaping history and leaving behind a legacy.  

“I’m so proud to be a part of Matatū.”  

Kick-off: Saturday 12 April, 7.05pm, Eden Park, Auckland 

Tickets on sale here.  

Matatū Starting Lineup: 

1. Pip Love 

2. Georgia Ponsonby 

3. Moomooga Palu 

4. Stacey Niao 

5. Chelsea Bremner 

6. Alana Bremner 

7. Laura Bayfield  

8. Kaipo Olsen-Baker 

9. Maia Joseph 

10. Hannah King 

11. Chey Robins-Reti 

12. Grace Brooker 

13. Amy du Plessis 

14. Winnie Palamo 

15. Kaea Nepia 
    
    IMPACT PLAYERS
    
    

16. Tegan Hollows 

17. Maddi Robinson 

18. Amy Rule 

19. Sarah Jones 

20. Fiaali'i Solomona 

21. Kelsyn McCook 

22. Hollyrae Mete 

23. Fia Laikong 

Unavailable for selection due to injury: Emma Dermody, Marcelle Parkes, Lucy Jenkins, Eilis Doyle